DICOM File Extension

What is DICOM file?

DICOM is a raster image file format. This format is used for storing medical image data such as ultrasound or MRI images. Each DICOM image contains patient data. DICOM files are sometimes saved as DCM files (both formats are identical).

DICOM format

DICOM images are relatively large in size, typically larger than 30 MB. It is a high-definition image format with well-defined standards supported by sophisticated imaging equipment. The standard is very strict but offers much freedom as to how additional custom features are implemented. Some implementations of the standard may not be portable.

Programs which support DICOM file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open DICOM files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with DICOM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 12/11/2022

How to open file with DICOM extension?

Problems with accessing DICOM may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with DICOM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with DICOM files.

Step 1. Install Adobe Photoshop software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening DICOM files is that no program that can handle DICOM files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Adobe Photoshop or one to the listed programs: GIMP, ImageMagick. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Adobe Photoshop website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Adobe Photoshop and update if needed

You still cannot access DICOM files although Adobe Photoshop is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why DICOM files are not compatible with Adobe Photoshop. The most recent version of Adobe Photoshop is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Photoshop to DICOM files

If you have the latest version of Adobe Photoshop installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage DICOM on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the DICOM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Adobe Photoshop installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open DICOM files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with DICOM extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with DICOM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the DICOM for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the DICOM file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the DICOM file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the DICOM file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the DICOM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with DICOM extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic DICOM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the DICOM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the DICOM Image Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Adobe Photoshop

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support DICOM files. Close all running programs and try opening the DICOM file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with DICOM Image Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the DICOM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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