What it is
Radiologists read images, often without your full story. This phrase hands the finding back to your doctor: “here is what I see — check whether it fits what the patient is experiencing.”
How common is it?
One of the most common phrases in radiology reports. It appears on findings of every level of importance, including trivial ones.
What's usually next
Your doctor considers the finding alongside your symptoms, exam, and labs, and decides whether anything more is needed — often nothing is.
When it usually isn't — and when it might be — worrying
Usually reassuring
- Routine phrasing used on countless reports
- Attached to a finding described as mild or nonspecific
- Your doctor has already reviewed the report
Worth discussing with your doctor
- Attached to a finding the report calls significant
- You have symptoms that seem to match the finding
- No one has discussed the report with you yet
Questions to ask your doctor
- 1Which finding does this phrase refer to?
- 2Does the finding fit my symptoms?
- 3Is any additional test or follow-up needed?
Educational use only. This explanation helps you understand terminology on your report. It is not a diagnosis, is not FDA-cleared, and does not replace your doctor. Bring questions to your care team.