What is MIME type "image/dicom-rle"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

image/dicom-rle is a MIME type used for medical images in the DICOM standard. It applies Run Length Encoding (RLE) to compress image data. This helps reduce file sizes while preserving essential diagnostic information.

Key facts and uses:

Integrates into medical imaging systems.
Optimizes storage and transmission of scans.
Works with diagnostic devices and software.
Improves performance during image display and exchange.

Files using this format are typically associated with DCM and DIC. These files store detailed images like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans in a compressed form.

For more technical insights, refer to trusted resources on the DICOM Standard.

Associated file extensions

.dcm, .dic

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: image/dicom-rle

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="image/dicom-rle">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'image/dicom-rle');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.dcm, .dic

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.