An incidental finding is something seen on a scan that was not what the doctor was originally looking for.
An incidental finding may cause no symptoms at all. It is often discovered while checking another problem.
Imaging helps detect these unexpected findings and also helps decide whether they look harmless, need follow-up, or need urgent attention.
Radiologists describe incidental findings to make sure important unexpected abnormalities are not missed, even when they are unrelated to the original reason for the scan.
Management may be simple reassurance, routine follow-up, another scan, or referral depending on what was found.
This entry explains the word. If it appeared on your report, the next step is getting that report interpreted for your case.
