by 
The Curious Bag
-
Nephrocalcinosis is a condition in which an overabundance of calcium in the bloodstream causes deposits to collect in the kidneys. X rays are one of several techniques doctors can use to diagnose this condition. This article will explain why this works.
X-Ray Basics
When an x ray is taken, a special machine is used to send a small amount of electromagnetic radiation (frequently called "x-rays") through the body. The x-rays land on and expose a special type of photographic film on the other side of the body.
Different Absorbency rates
Different types of tissue in the body absorb the x-rays at different rates, so the film will show an image based on where the x-rays are allowed to pass through and where they are absorbed.
Soft Tissue
Soft tissue, like muscles and organs, will absorb only a small amount of the x-rays. The lungs, since they are filled with air, absorb almost nothing and will be darkest.
Bones
Calcium absorbs the x-rays very well, and since bones are mostly calcium the x-ray will show bones the most clearly, as white areas.
Nephrocalcinosis
X-rays are useful for diagnosing Nephrocalcinosis because calcium deposits in the kidneys will show up white in the x-ray, whereas the surrounding soft organ tissue will show up much darker.
Source:
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC