Radiology plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing various medical conditions, from fractures to life-threatening diseases like cancer. However, misdiagnoses in radiology are more common than many realize. Subtle findings, human error, or even poor imaging quality can lead to incorrect or missed diagnoses, which can significantly impact a patient’s treatment and overall health.
In this blog, we will discuss the most common radiology misdiagnoses and how a second opinion from a specialized radiologist on MDView can help ensure patients receive the right diagnosis, allowing their specialists to implement the most appropriate treatment plan.
Common Radiology Misdiagnoses
Missed Fractures
Some fractures, such as scaphoid (wrist) fractures, rib fractures, or hairline fractures in the spine, can be difficult to detect on initial X-rays. In some cases, normal growth plates in children may be mistaken for fractures, leading to unnecessary treatments or missed injuries that require immobilization.
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Pulmonary embolism is a serious, potentially fatal condition where blood clots block arteries in the lungs. Small emboli can sometimes be missed on CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), while false positives can occur due to imaging artifacts or mucus plugging.
Stroke (Ischemic vs. Hemorrhagic)
Early ischemic strokes may not be visible on non-contrast CT scans, leading to delays in treatment. Similarly, small hemorrhages can be overlooked, increasing the risk of complications if left untreated.
Lung Cancer
Lung nodules can be mistaken for benign conditions such as granulomas or infections, especially on chest X-rays. Failing to detect or correctly classify these nodules can delay cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Spinal Pathologies
Herniated discs and degenerative spinal changes are often misdiagnosed, leading to ineffective pain management. Spinal metastases (cancer spread to the spine) can sometimes be mistaken for benign lesions, delaying necessary interventions.
Abdominal and Pelvic Conditions
Misdiagnosis of appendicitis, bowel ischemia, or ovarian torsion can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. In some cases, these conditions are mistaken for less urgent gastrointestinal or gynecological disorders.
Breast Cancer
Dense breast tissue can obscure small tumors on mammograms, leading to false negatives. Conversely, benign calcifications or normal glandular tissue may be misinterpreted as malignancy, causing unnecessary biopsies and anxiety.
Aortic Dissection
Aortic dissection, a potentially fatal condition, can be mistaken for a normal aorta or other vascular anomalies, delaying life-saving treatment.
Misdiagnosed Infections
Osteomyelitis (bone infection) is sometimes confused with soft tissue swelling, while lung infections such as tuberculosis or fungal infections may mimic cancer on imaging.
Brain Tumors
Small or deeply located brain tumors can be missed on routine CT scans. In some cases, post-stroke changes may be mistaken for tumors, leading to unnecessary procedures or missed cancer diagnoses.
How a Second Opinion from MDView Can Ensure the Right Diagnosis
Given the potential for misdiagnosis, obtaining a second opinion from a specialized radiologist can be life-changing. MDView is an innovative online platform that connects patients with expert radiologists who specialize in their specific type of imaging. Here’s how a second opinion from MDView can help:
Expert Review by a Specialized Radiologist
Unlike general radiologists, specialists in musculoskeletal, neuroradiology, body imaging (chest, abdominal, and pelvic exams), or breast imaging have advanced expertise in specific areas. This targeted knowledge helps identify subtle findings that may be overlooked in general radiology reads.
Reduced Risk of False Negatives or Positives
With a second opinion, small fractures, early-stage cancers, or subtle signs of disease are less likely to be missed. Conversely, benign findings misinterpreted as serious conditions can be accurately diagnosed, preventing unnecessary treatments.
A Clear, Actionable Report for Your Doctor
MDView provides a comprehensive and detailed second opinion report that can be shared with your primary physician. This ensures that your healthcare team has the most accurate information to guide your treatment plan.
Faster, More Reliable Diagnoses
Waiting weeks for radiology reports can be stressful. MDView offers expert second opinions within 72-hours or less (with an option to expedite within 24-hours), helping you and your doctor make informed decisions sooner.
Peace of Mind for Patients and Families
Whether confirming an initial diagnosis or uncovering an oversight, a second opinion provides clarity and confidence in your next steps.
Take Control of Your Health with MDView
If you or a loved one has received an imaging report and want to ensure it’s accurate, a second opinion from MDView can provide reassurance and guidance. The expert radiologists in MDView are here to help you get the right diagnosis and the best treatment plan without unnecessary delays.
Don’t leave your diagnosis to chance - get a second opinion from MDView today!
Register for a free account today at: https://app.mdview.com and upload your exam to get an expert second opinion. Don't have access to your images? No problem! MDView can get your images directly from the facility on your behalf at no cost to you!