What is DICOM and why is it important in radiography?

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DICOM is a universal standard for medical imaging data that defines how images and their related information are stored, transmitted, and displayed so systems from different manufacturers can work together. Each image file carries a header with metadata—patient identifiers, study details, modality, and acquisition parameters—so the right study is retrieved and interpreted correctly across PACS, RIS, and electronic medical records. This interoperability ensures consistent viewing, accurate archiving, and reliable record-keeping throughout the radiology workflow. The other options describe only narrow aspects (demographics, imaging protocols, or a consent form), but DICOM provides the comprehensive framework for image data exchange and integration.