Radiologic Pearls for Internists: A Case-Based Review

Am J Med. 2018 Jan;131(1):9-16. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.08.022. Epub 2017 Sep 7.

Abstract

Modern technologic advances in medical imaging and the increasing use of imaging across all disciplines in medicine have led to a striking rise in incidental findings unrelated to the original study indication. Often, these findings have no clinical relevance and will not impact the current or future health status of the patient. It is incumbent on radiologists to report these findings in a definitive and unambiguous manner. Similarly, it is essential for clinicians to restrain from further diagnostic investigation of incidental findings that are conclusive by imaging. A classic and common example is the finding of a cyst. This article presents several cases of incidentally found cysts for which a confident diagnosis can be made without any need for follow-up.

Keywords: Computed tomography (CT); Cyst; Epididymal; Incidental; Kidney; Liver; Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); Pericardial; Spleen; Thyroid; Ultrasound (US).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cysts / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Middle Aged