Which of the following factors does not contribute to image quality in mammography?

In mammography, image quality is influenced by several technical factors that enhance the diagnostic capability of the images obtained. Contrast resolution refers to the ability to distinguish between different tissues and structures within the breast, which is critical for identifying abnormalities such as tumors. Dose is a factor that impacts image quality since it must be optimized to ensure that imaging is effective while minimizing radiation exposure. Noise, which involves random variations in the image that can obscure details, also plays a crucial role in image quality; lower noise levels typically lead to clearer, more discernible images.

Brightness, while important for visual perception, does not itself contribute to the intrinsic quality of the mammographic image in the same way that contrast resolution, dose, and noise do. Instead, brightness can be adjusted based on viewer preferences and does not fundamentally alter the ability of the imaging system to accurately depict the anatomy or any pathologies present. Therefore, brightness is considered a display characteristic rather than a contributing factor to the technical quality of the image itself.