Radiology reports can be difficult to read; this page explains the terminology, structure, and descriptive wording radiologists use so you can better understand what your report means.
What This Page Covers
• Why radiologists use neutral, descriptive wording
• What each section of a radiology report means
• How findings are documented
• Common descriptive terms and their function
• How to read the “Findings” and “Impression” sections
• When terminology pages may helpIf your report contains specific terminology, these pages may help:
• MRI Terms Explained
• CT Terms Explained
• Joint Terminology Explained
• Spine Terminology Explained
Why Radiology Reports Use Neutral, Descriptive Language
Radiologists document what they see on imaging using objective, descriptive wording. This approach
• avoids assumptions
• keeps interpretation consistent
• focuses on appearance rather than meaning
• supports clinical decision-making by the treating doctorYour treating clinician combines these imaging findings with your symptoms, physical exam, and medical history.
How a Radiology Report Is Structured
Most radiology reports follow a standard structure:1. Indication
Why the scan was performed.2. Technique
How the scan was performed (e.g., MRI sequences, CT phases).3. Findings
A structured, descriptive list of what appears on the images.4. Impression
A brief summary written for the referring clinician that highlights the most relevant observations.
How Radiologists Describe Findings
Findings are documented using neutral phrases. These describe:
• size
• location
• shape
• appearance compared to surrounding tissues
• changes compared to previous imagingExamples of descriptive wording include:
• “well-defined”
• “ill-defined”
• “increased signal”
• “low attenuation”
• “mild, moderate, marked”
• “compatible with the appearance of…”These phrases describe appearance only — not diagnosis.
Understanding the “Impression” Section
The impression summarizes the key observations from the scan.
It highlights what is most clinically relevant for the treating doctor.It does not replace medical advice and should be interpreted within the context of your symptoms and health history by your clinician.
FAQ — Common Questions About Radiology Reports
Does a radiology report always provide a diagnosis?Radiology reports sometimes describe a condition that is clearly identifiable on imaging, such as a fracture, a kidney stone, or certain types of inflammation or masses. In other cases, imaging findings are descriptive and require your treating clinician to combine them with symptoms, examination, and medical history to reach a diagnosis.Why does my report use technical terms?Radiology uses standardized wording so findings are described clearly and consistently across hospitals, regions, and imaging types.Why does the impression section sound brief?It highlights only the most relevant observations for your clinician. The detailed information is in the Findings section.Why does my report reference previous imaging?Comparisons help determine whether something is unchanged, improved, or new.
If Your Radiology Report Is Unclear and You Want a Plain-Language Explanation
You can upload your anonymized report and receive a clear, structured explanation focused on wording and terminology — without diagnosis or medical advice.✔ Educational explanation
✔ Clear, neutral wording
✔ Private delivery by emailExplain my report → €59