How should Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) photos be interpreted and reported?

From the Guidelines

MRI photos should be interpreted and reported by qualified radiologists using a systematic approach that includes reviewing patient history, analyzing all imaging sequences, and documenting findings in a standardized format. This approach is crucial for accurate interpretation of MRI findings, as it allows radiologists to identify normal anatomy, abnormalities in signal intensity, size, shape, or location of structures, and provide a definitive diagnosis or differential diagnosis with recommendations for further investigations if needed 1.

The report should begin with a clear indication of the examination performed and clinical information, including patient age, sex, a summary of symptoms, the suspected diagnosis, and what imaging was available for comparison 1. The radiologist should also include a general statement about image quality and complications from imaging, particularly if the examination or its interpretation is affected 1.

Key elements to include in the report are:

• Clinical data, such as patient age, sex, and symptoms
• Technical data, including the applied field strength and sequences used in the MRI
• Anatomic coverage of the examination
• Image quality and any complications from imaging
• Findings related to the suspected diagnosis, including bone marrow edema, erosions, and fat lesions
• Findings unrelated to the suspected diagnosis but of potential clinical importance
• A conclusion stating whether the findings are compatible with the suspected diagnosis, and any recommendations for further investigations or referral to a specialist 1.

By following this systematic approach and including all relevant information in the report, radiologists can ensure accurate interpretation and effective communication of MRI findings, ultimately leading to appropriate patient management and improved outcomes 1.

From the Research

Interpreting and Reporting MRI Photos

• MRI photos should be interpreted and reported in a clear and concise manner, conveying all pertinent details needed by the clinician 2, 3.
• The report should be written in an active voice, avoiding uncertain language and phrases that may confuse the reader 2.
• Critical findings should be promptly communicated to the appropriate healthcare provider and documented in the final report 2, 4.

Key Principles of Reporting Imaging Findings

• The findings section should emphasize short, informative, and factual observations, avoiding inappropriate interpretation and redundancy 3.
• The impression should be a thoughtful synthesis of the meaning of the findings, leading to a diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and management recommendations 3.
• The report should use language that is understandable, memorable, and actionable, considering the needs of a diverse audience, including patients and their families 3, 5.

Enhancing Comprehensibility of Radiology Reports

• Guidelines for radiology reporting should consider comprehensibility for referring clinicians and patients, including the use of lay language summaries 5.
• Reports should be written in a clear and concise format, avoiding technical jargon and complex terminology 4.
• The use of standardized templates and checklists can help ensure that all necessary information is included in the report 4.

Specialized Reporting for Ischemic Stroke Lesions

• MRI images, particularly DWI modality, are the standard tool for visualizing core and penumbra of ischemic stroke, supporting diagnosis and lesion prognosis 6.
• A deep generative strategy can be used to translate CT scans to synthetic DWI-MRI images, preserving ischemic stroke lesions and allowing for more accurate diagnosis and treatment 6.