.DCM File Extension

DICOM Image

Developer	NEMA
Popularity	Average rating 3.2 / 5. Vote count: 220
Category	Raster Image Files
Format	.DCM
Cross Platform	Update Soon

What is an DCM file?

.DCM files, standing for DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine), are primarily used for storing and transmitting medical imaging data.

This format is widely adopted in the medical field for its ability to handle a vast array of imaging types like CT scans, MRI images, and ultrasound photographs.

More Information.

Developed in the 1980s, the DICOM standard was created by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR).

Its initial purpose was to facilitate the transfer and storage of medical images and their associated data.

Origin Of This File.

The .DCM file format originated from the need for a standardized method of distributing and viewing medical images. This necessity arose from the diverse range of imaging equipment and software present in medical institutions.

File Structure Technical Specification.

.DCM files are unique in that they combine image data with patient information. The file structure typically includes metadata about the patient (name, ID), the imaging process (date, equipment used), and the image itself, often in a high-resolution format.

How to Convert the File?

Windows

RadiAnt DICOM Viewer: This software allows you to export .DCM files to JPEG, PNG, or BMP formats. Open the .DCM file in RadiAnt, then use the export function to convert it.
MicroDicom: It also offers conversion options. After opening the .DCM file, you can save it in a different format via the ‘Save As’ option.
Online Converters: Use online DICOM converters like FileZigZag or AnyConv by uploading your .DCM file and choosing the desired output format.

Linux

GIMP with DICOM Plugin: GIMP can open and convert .DCM files with the right plugin. Once opened, you can export the image in various formats.
Command-line Tools: Tools like dcm2pnm can convert DICOM files to other formats via terminal commands, offering a scriptable, batch processing approach.
Aeskulap: While primarily a viewer, it might offer basic conversion functionalities, depending on the version.

Mac

OsiriX MD: Known for its advanced features, it can convert .DCM files to other formats. However, the free version has limitations.
Horos: A free and open-source solution on Mac that can open and export .DCM files in different formats.
Online Tools: Like in Windows, online converters can also be used on Mac for a quick and easy conversion process.

Android

DICOM Viewer Apps with Conversion: Some DICOM viewer apps on Android might offer conversion features, allowing you to save the image in a more common format.
File Converter Apps: Dedicated file conversion apps on the Google Play Store can sometimes handle .DCM files, although their efficacy varies.

iOS

DICOM Viewer Apps: Apps like OsiriX HD might provide the functionality to convert .DCM files into other image formats.
Using Cloud Services: Some cloud-based DICOM platforms have iOS apps that allow conversion and export of .DCM files.

Advantages And Disadvantages.

Advantages:

Universal compatibility across medical imaging equipment.
High image quality suitable for diagnostic purposes.
Inclusion of relevant patient information within the file.

Disadvantages:

File sizes can be large, requiring significant storage space.
Requires specialized software to open and interpret.

               How to Open DCM?
                  Open In Windows
                  DICOM Viewer Software: Use specialized DICOM viewer software like RadiAnt DICOM Viewer or MicroDicom. These are often free or offer trial versions.
Adobe Photoshop: If you have Adobe Photoshop, it can open .DCM files, but it’s more suitable for viewing the image rather than diagnostic use.
Built-in Options: Some versions of Windows may have built-in support for .DCM files, but this is less common and less functional than dedicated software.

                  Open In Linux
                  Ginkgo CADx: A popular, open-source DICOM viewer for Linux, offering a range of features for medical imaging.
Aeskulap: Another Linux-compatible DICOM viewer, known for its user-friendly interface and robust feature set.
Command-line Tools: Advanced users can utilize command-line tools like dcmdump for viewing DICOM file metadata.

                  Open In MAC
                  OsiriX MD: A highly professional DICOM viewer for Mac, widely used in the medical field (note: the free version has limitations).
Horos: A free and open-source DICOM viewer, popular among Mac users for its versatility and ease of use.
Built-in Preview: The Mac Preview app can sometimes open .DCM files, but it offers limited functionality compared to specialized viewers.

                  Open In Android
                  Mobile DICOM Viewers: Apps like ONRAD, DICOM Viewer Free, or RadiAnt Viewer Mobile are available on the Google Play Store, specifically designed to handle .DCM files on Android devices.
File Conversion Apps: Some apps can convert .DCM files to more common image formats for easier viewing on standard gallery apps.

                  Open In IOS
                  Mobile DICOM Apps: Options like OsiriX HD, Mobile MIM, or DICOM Viewer by CoreWare are available on the App Store, tailored for iOS devices.
Cloud-Based Viewers: Some cloud-based DICOM services offer iOS apps, allowing users to view .DCM files stored in the cloud.

                  Open in Others
                  Web-Based DICOM Viewers: Platforms like PostDICOM or IMAIOS e-Anatomy offer browser-based solutions to view .DCM files, accessible on any device with internet connectivity.
Platform-Specific Software: For other operating systems, seek out platform-specific DICOM viewers or universal file converters that can handle the .DCM format.