You finally got your MRI or CT scan report…and now you’re more worried than before. Words like lesion, mass, or indeterminate jump off the page, and Google isn’t helping.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Every day, thousands of people search for what their radiology report really means. Here’s what most are looking for, and how to find peace of mind faster.
1. “What does this even mean?”
Radiology reports are written for doctors, not patients.
That’s why so many people search things like “lesion meaning on MRI” or “unremarkable on CT scan.”
A few quick translations:
- Lesion or mass: An area that looks different from normal tissue (not always dangerous)
- Unremarkable: Good news! It means everything looks normal
- Incidental finding: Something unexpected, often harmless
If you’re unsure, a radiologist second opinion can ensure accurate results and provide tools to translate the medical language into plain English, so you actually understand your results.
2. “Is it cancer?”
This is the top fear. Many reports include cautious language like “cannot exclude malignancy” or “indeterminate finding.”
That doesn’t mean you have cancer, it means your radiologist is being thorough.
A subspecialized radiologist (for example, one who only reads neurology or musculoskeletal MRIs) can give you a clearer answer.
That’s exactly what MDView provides, connecting patients directly with board-certified experts for fast, trusted second opinions.
3. “What should I do next?”
You might see “follow-up recommended” on your report. Sometimes that means another scan in a few months. Other times, your doctor might suggest a specialist or biopsy.
Getting a second opinion helps you understand whether more testing is really needed, or if the finding is stable and nothing to worry about.
4. “Why is the language so uncertain?”
Radiology reports use words like “suggestive of” or “could represent” because imaging alone can’t always give 100% answers.
However, a subspecialist review adds deeper context, expertise in your exact body area or condition. That extra layer of insight can make all the difference in understanding what’s serious and what’s not.
5. “How do I calm my ‘scanxiety’?”
Waiting for answers can be the hardest part.
Try this while you wait:
- Don’t rely on random Google results
- Write down your questions for your doctor
- Get a second opinion from a trusted source like MDView to get clarity faster
The Bottom Line
If your radiology report left you confused or anxious, you don’t have to guess what it means.
A subspecialized radiologist can review your scan, provide a thorough and accurate expert analysis, and help you make confident next steps, usually within 72 hours.
Get clarity today at mdview.com