What Does “Impression” Mean on a Radiology Report?
What Does “Impression” Mean on a Radiology Report?
If you’ve recently had an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray, you likely received a radiology report containing medical terminology that can be confusing. One of the most important parts of this report is the “Impression” section—but what exactly does it mean?
In this guide, we’ll explain what “Impression” means in a radiology report, how to understand it, and why it’s the key takeaway from your imaging study.
What Is a Radiology Report?
A radiology report is written by a radiologist, a doctor trained to interpret medical images. It summarizes what was seen on your imaging test and helps your referring physician make a diagnosis or treatment plan.
The report typically includes:
✔ Patient Information – Name, age, date of exam
✔ Clinical History – Reason for the imaging test
✔ Technique – Type of imaging and whether contrast was used
✔ Findings – A detailed description of what was observed
✔ Impression – A summary and interpretation of the findings.
What Does “Impression” Mean in a Radiology Report?
The Impression section is the radiologist’s expert summary of the most important findings on your imaging test. It includes:
✔ A concise explanation of what was found
✔ Any abnormalities or significant observations
✔ A potential diagnosis or differential diagnosis
✔ Suggestions for additional tests or follow-up if needed
Think of the Impression as the report's bottom line—the key takeaways your doctor will use to guide your care.
Why Is the Impression Section So Important?
✔ It translates the detailed technical findings into a summary that’s easier to understand.
✔ It provides a clinical interpretation, not just a list of observations.
✔ It often includes recommendations for further testing, if necessary.
✔ It helps your doctor decide on the next steps in diagnosis or treatment.
Examples of Impression Statements
Normal Result
“No acute intracranial abnormality. Brain parenchyma, ventricles, and vasculature are within normal limits.”
Translation: No evidence of stroke, tumor, or bleeding.
Abnormal Finding
“3 cm mass in the right upper lobe concerning primary lung neoplasm. Recommend CT-guided biopsy.”
Translation: A potentially cancerous mass was found. Further testing is advised.
Inconclusive or Uncertain Result
“Indeterminate 1.2 cm lesion in the liver. Consider follow-up MRI in 3-6 months.”
Translation: The finding isn’t benign or serious. Monitoring is recommended.
How to Understand the Impression Section as a Patient
✔ Look for keywords – Words like “normal,” “unremarkable,” or “no evidence” usually mean good news.
✔ Note concerning terms – Words like “suspicious,” “concerning,” “mass,” or “lesion” may indicate an abnormality.
✔ Pay attention to recommendations – If follow-up imaging, biopsy, or referral is suggested, following through is important.
✔ Don’t panic – Not all abnormalities are serious. Many findings are benign or non-urgent.
✔ Talk to your doctor – They will interpret the radiologist’s impression regarding your overall health.
What If You Don’t Understand the Impression?
Medical terminology can be overwhelming. If you’re unsure about what your radiology report means:
✔ Ask your doctor for clarification
✔ Get a second opinion
✔ Use an AI interpretation service like ReadMyMRI.com for a fast, easy-to-understand summary.
Get Help Understanding Your Radiology Report
If you’ve received a radiology report and are confused by the “Impression” section, our AI-powered Imaging Report Service at ReadMyMRI.com can help.
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The Impression section of your radiology report is the most important part—it tells you and your doctor what the images mean and what action, if any, should be taken next.
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