This Invention is directed at the automated analysis of body scanner images. Body scanners are used in airports and other secured facilities to detect weapons, explosives, and other security threats hidden under persons' clothing. These devices use x-rays, millimeter waves and other radiant energy to produce an electronic image of the person's body and any concealed objects. Examination of these images by human analysts is slow, expensive, and subject to privacy concerns. The Invention provides automated analysis of body scanner images by recognizing that human anatomy is bilaterally symmetric to a high degree, while concealed objects are asymmetric. Digital techniques are used to separate the scanned image into its symmetric and asymmetric parts, thereby effectively separating anatomic from non-anatomic image features.