An MRI report may describe a finding that was not the main reason for the scan. These are often called incidental findings. They can be harmless, may explain symptoms that were not previously understood, or sometimes need further assessment. The wording of a report can be worrying, but a finding should be interpreted in context rather than assumed to be a diagnosis.
If your MRI report mentions an unexpected finding, we understand that the wording can be worrying. Our results pathway is designed to get your report to you promptly, with results provided within 3 days of your scan, so you can discuss the findings and next steps with the appropriate doctor.
What is an incidental finding?
An incidental finding is something seen on an examination that is not directly related to the original reason for imaging. For example, a scan of one area may show a common anatomical variation or a change in nearby tissue. Some findings are well understood and need no action; others may warrant comparison with previous images or additional tests.
The significance depends on the location, appearance, medical history, symptoms and type of scan. The word “finding” or “lesion” is descriptive and does not, by itself, mean cancer or another serious disease.
Why might a report recommend further tests?
Imaging can identify an area that cannot be confidently characterised by the original examination. The radiologist may recommend a different scan, follow-up imaging after a period of time, blood tests or clinical review. This does not automatically mean the finding is dangerous; it means more information may be needed.
The recommendation should be considered alongside your history and any previous imaging. If the report suggests a specific timeframe, ask the doctor looking after your care what it means and who will organise the next step.
How to read unfamiliar report language
Radiology reports use technical terms to describe anatomy and how certain a finding appears. Words such as “indeterminate”, “likely benign” or “correlate clinically” have specific meanings and should be explained in context. Avoid searching isolated phrases and assuming that a result applies to every person.
Make a note of the exact wording and ask your doctor to explain what is known, what remains uncertain and whether the finding relates to your symptoms. It is reasonable to ask whether the images have been compared with previous scans.
Who explains the results?
A radiologist interprets the images and writes the report. The referring or responsible doctor considers that report alongside your symptoms, examination and medical history, and discusses what it means for you. Depending on the service, you may receive the report and images directly as well as through a doctor.
PrivateScans provides results within 3 days of the scan. If the report recommends follow-up, clarify who will arrange it and whether you should contact your GP or another service. A report does not automatically arrange additional NHS investigations or specialist appointments.
Can private scan results be used by the NHS?
You can share the report and images with your GP or NHS team, and they may help inform decisions about further assessment or treatment. The NHS doctor decides how the information is used and whether additional examination, imaging or tests are required. A private scan does not guarantee acceptance into a particular pathway or a shorter waiting time.
Keep a copy of the report and, where available, access to the original images. Providing both can help doctors review the examination and decide whether further imaging is needed.
When should you seek urgent advice?
Follow any explicit urgent instructions in the report or from your doctor. If you have severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, new weakness, speech difficulty, chest pain, severe breathlessness or another emergency symptom, seek urgent NHS help rather than waiting for a routine follow-up.
What is an incidental finding?
An incidental finding is something seen on a scan that was not the main reason for the examination. It may be a harmless normal variant, a common age-related change, something that needs comparison with previous images, or a finding that warrants further assessment. The word “incidental” does not itself mean that a finding is dangerous.
Radiologists consider the appearance, location and clinical context when deciding whether a finding is likely to be important. Some findings can be described confidently; others may be indeterminate and require clinical review, another imaging test or follow-up after an appropriate interval. The report should explain the level of concern and any recommended next step where possible.
How unexpected findings are followed up
Follow-up depends on the type of finding, its features, the reason for the original scan and your medical history. The next step may be no action, review by your GP or specialist, comparison with previous images, targeted imaging, blood tests or occasionally a biopsy. Not every incidental finding needs another test, and more testing is not automatically better; doctors weigh the potential benefit against possible harms and uncertainty.
Make sure the doctor looking after your care receives the report and knows whether follow-up was recommended. If you have had scans elsewhere, previous reports and images may help determine whether a finding is new or stable. Ask who will organise the next step and when you should expect to hear back, rather than assuming that the scan provider automatically manages all follow-up.
Questions to ask when you receive a report
- Which finding prompted the recommendation for follow-up?
- Is it considered likely to be benign, uncertain or concerning?
- What test or appointment is recommended, and how soon?
- Who is responsible for arranging it?
- Would comparing previous scans help?
Try not to interpret isolated medical terms without the full report and clinical context. If you have new or worsening symptoms, seek medical advice even if the report describes no major abnormality. A scan is a diagnostic tool, and the findings must be considered alongside the symptoms that led to the examination.
Sources and further reading
These NHS resources provide further information. They do not replace individual clinical advice.
This article is for general information only and does not replace an individual assessment or advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Scan suitability and preparation depend on your circumstances and the specific examination. If you are worried about symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional. Seek urgent help for emergency symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about your scan, how to prepare and what happens next.
Does an unexpected MRI finding mean cancer?
No. Incidental findings have many possible explanations, including common benign changes. The report and clinical context determine whether further assessment is needed.
Will I need another scan?
Not always. Some findings need no action, while others may require comparison with previous images, follow-up imaging or another test. a doctor can explain the recommendation.
Can I send my private MRI report to my NHS GP?
Yes, you can share the report and images. The NHS doctor decides whether and how they are used in your care and whether additional assessment is needed.
What if the report recommends urgent follow-up?
Follow the instructions and contact your doctor or service named in the report. If you cannot reach them or symptoms are severe, seek appropriate urgent NHS advice.
Ready to arrange your scan?
At PrivateScans, we make arranging your scan straightforward. Appointments can usually be arranged within 1–3 days, and your results are provided within 3 days of your scan. When you’re ready, book online. If you have questions before booking, our team is here to help.