What does my CT or MRI report mean? Understand my scan before my appointment
Radiology reports are written for clinicians, not Google searches. This hub collects plain-English guides by scan type so you can orient yourself before your visit. When you also have your DICOM images, you can use DICOM Reader for an AI-assisted, informational summary tied to your frames — not a diagnosis.
- Start with the impression on your PDF report (if you have one), then skim findings for context.
- Pick your modality below (CT, MRI, X-ray, or ultrasound) for term-by-term help.
- Write down questions for your doctor — use our prep article if it helps.
- Have DICOM? Create a free account at DICOM Reader, upload the full study folder, and explore optional plain-English reporting and chat — still follow your clinician for care decisions.
Safety: These guides are educational only. DICOM Reader does not provide a medical diagnosis and is not a substitute for a licensed radiologist or physician. Seek emergency care for urgent symptoms.
Start with your report type
Anatomy of every radiology report and what to do next.
Your imaging files (DICOM)
If the hospital gave you a CD, USB, or a portal download, you need the folder of .dcm files — not a single photo. These guides cover the basics; browser viewing is optional.
Short explainer: folders of .dcm files, hospital handoff, upload the full study in one go.
What is on the disc, why it looks odd in Finder or File Explorer, and how folders work.
Full-study upload in the browser: viewer, optional AI summary, and chat — informational only.
Viewing without upload: DICOM file viewer · Mac tips for hospital media
Browse the full patient blog for finding-specific articles (nodules, MRI terms, and more).
Have your DICOM and want plain-English orientation?
Create a free account and upload your full study — free to start. Informational only.
Create a free account and upload your scanDoes not replace your radiologist or physician. See FAQ.