The use of imaging and interventional radiology in modern oncology

Radiology has become central in the diagnosis and management of patients in almost all subspecialties, but especially so in oncology. From its use as an initial screening tool to detect cancer, through to the staging and surveillance of disease, follow-up of post-treatment changes and delivery of minimal access therapies, radiology provides critical information about the status of patients' cancer care and treatment outcomes. Since the initial accidental discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Röntgen in 1895, imaging technology has advanced rapidly, with multiple types of scans available; the specific advantages and limitations of each suited to particular pathologies, necessitating specialist interpretation by clinical radiologists. The main modalities of imaging are introduced here and their principle uses described.