How do artifacts affect CT images?

Artifacts can significantly impact CT images by degrading overall image quality and potentially complicating the diagnostic process. They may introduce unexpected features or distortions that mimic or obscure anatomical structures, leading to potential misinterpretation by radiologists. For instance, some artifacts are caused by motion, beam hardening, or metal, which can produce streaks or shadows that do not accurately represent the patient's anatomy. This misrepresentation can hinder a radiologist's ability to make accurate assessments, potentially affecting patient care and treatment decisions. Therefore, option B accurately reflects the negative influence of artifacts on the quality and utility of CT images in a clinical setting.