Modern development of imaging procedures in oncology.

From the oncologic point of view, imaging diagnostic techniques have been and will be of steadily increasing significance. This paper gives a survey of the present state of the art and of various aspects of current international trends in X-ray diagnostics, computed tomography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance. High tech developments raise the expenditures, so that the cost-benefit-relations have to be considered in future diagnostic strategies. Some aspects for further research tasks are mentioned. The aim of all improvements in imaging procedures is to increase the influence of diagnostic procedures on treatment planning and to improve the treatment results and, ultimately, the prognosis of cancer patients.