Diagnostic imaging: special needs of older patients

A wide variety of imaging techniques is available to assess the presence or extent of disease in the geriatric patient. Modalities range from the simple radiograph to more invasive techniques that may be poorly tolerated. Radiologic exams are used to test a wide range of conditions in the elderly, including respiratory disease, breast cancer, gastrointestinal and genitourinary disorders, skeletal disease, vascular disease, and neurologic illnesses. Selection of the proper test begins by matching the suspected disorder with the least invasive examination. More invasive tests are ordered next, if necessary. Consultation with radiology staff can help to optimize test selection.