Radiology Questions Explained

Radiology reports often raise questions — especially when the language is technical or unfamiliar. This page answers common non-clinical, educational questions about radiology terminology, imaging reports, and how they are structured.These explanations are general and educational.
They do not give medical advice, diagnosis, or interpretation of any finding.Submit Report Text

A radiology report is the written document that accompanies an imaging exam such as a CT, MRI, X-ray, or ultrasound.
It typically includes:• The type of test performed
• A short description of how it was done
• Technical observations (“Findings”)
• A summary for the doctor (“Impression”)The report is written for healthcare professionals, which is why it may seem complex.To get a clear explanation of the wording in your own report, visit:Understand Your Report →

Radiologists use specialized medical terminology to describe what they see.
Terms such as “consolidation,” “effusion,” “hypodense,” or “hyperintense” are common in medical communication.These words are not meant to be confusing — they are simply precise terminology used between medical professionals.If you need a plain-language explanation, you can submit your report text:
Submit Report Text

The purpose of a radiology report is to:• Document what the radiologist sees on the images
• Describe observations in a structured, technical way
• Communicate findings to the referring doctor
• Support clinical decision-makingIt is not intended to provide a patient-friendly explanation.
That’s where Radlii can help.This page explains terminology only — it does not provide clinical interpretation.

FindingsA detailed description of what the radiologist sees.ImpressionA short summary written for the referring doctor.Radlii can help explain the wording, not the medical meaning.Radlii clarifies wording only — not the medical interpretation.

This is a medical question that requires clinical evaluation.
Radlii does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or interpretation of imaging findings.For any clinical concern (such as whether a mass is cancerous), consult your healthcare provider.

Accuracy depends on:• The type of imaging
• The quality of the study
• The clinical contextRadlii does not evaluate medical accuracy — we translate terminology into plain language.

A biopsy is often required for confirmation.
Radiologists may describe what findings suggest, but Radlii does not provide clinical interpretation.

Radiology tests are ordered to:• Look at internal structures
• Investigate symptoms
• Follow-up on known conditions
• Help guide treatment decisionsThis page explains terminology only — it does not provide clinical guidance.Radlii explains only the terminology — not clinical decisions.

Interpretation refers to how a radiologist analyzes the images using medical training.
Radlii does not interpret images — we explain the language in reports you already have.If you want wording explained:
Submit Report Text

• Hypodense / Hyperdense — Descriptions of how bright or dark an area looks on a CT scan.
• Effusion — Fluid inside a cavity, such as the chest or joint.
• Lesion — A general term meaning an “area that looks different.”
• Edema — Swelling or excess fluid in tissue.
• Atelectasis — A part of the lung that is not fully expanded.These are general definitions — not specific to your case.

These are general questions people search for – Radlii provides wording clarification only and does not give medical advice.Why do radiologists use technical language?Because precise terminology reduces ambiguity between doctors.How long does it take to get a radiology report?Varies by hospital and region. Radlii does not provide medical timelines.Can I get a copy of my radiology report?Yes — patients have the right to request their report.How do I understand my MRI report?Radiology reports are technical by nature. For a plain-language explanation, you can use Radlii’s service.What is the difference between CT and MRI?CT uses X-rays. MRI uses magnetic fields.Radlii does not provide medical recommendations about which test is needed.

If you already have your radiology report and want the wording clarified:Submit Report TextPlain wording.
No medical advice.
Just clarity.