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Plain-English guide
How to understand your radiology report
Many patients now see their scan report in the patient portal before talking to their doctor. Here is how to read it without panicking.
The parts of a report
- Indication / history: why the scan was ordered.
- Technique: how the scan was done (for example, with or without contrast dye).
- Comparison: older scans the radiologist looked at.
- Findings: everything they saw, part by part.
- Impression: the summary. Read this first. It is the most important part.
Tips that help
- “Unremarkable” and “within normal limits” mean normal.
- “Cannot exclude” or “may represent” means the radiologist is listing possibilities, not saying you have it.
- “Recommend follow-up” is very common. It usually means “let’s check again later,” not “something is wrong.”
Get it explained
Send us your report and your scan images. We explain each line in plain words and give you a list of questions for your doctor. CT $100, X-ray $25.
Get your scan explained
Plain-English explanation and questions for your doctor. CT scan: $100.
Questions
I saw my report before my doctor called. Should I worry?
Try not to. Reports are written in careful, cautious language, and many findings are common and harmless. Write down your questions and ask your doctor.
What does “clinical correlation recommended” mean?
It means the radiologist wants your doctor to compare the scan with your symptoms and exam. It is a standard phrase.
For information only. Not medical advice. MyScanGuide is not a doctor and does not diagnose or treat. Always talk with your own doctor. In an emergency, call 911.