Scans and X-rays
What Is an Incidental Finding on a Scan?
Incidental finding · say it: in-sih-DEN-tul FIND-ingAlso written: incidentaloma, incidental note
Short answer
An incidental finding is something seen on a scan or test that was not what the test was looking for.
What it means
Scans often show more of the body than the area of concern. When the radiologist notices something unrelated to the reason for the scan, it is called an incidental finding.
Incidental findings are very common, especially on CT and MRI. Many are harmless, such as small cysts or minor age-related changes.
Some incidental findings need follow-up to make sure they stay stable. The report may suggest what, if anything, should be done next.
Where you may see it
- CT, MRI and ultrasound reports
- Often in the "Impression" or at the end of the "Findings" section
- Letters from specialists summarising scan results
📄 How it looks on a report
Incidental note is made of a 5 mm cyst in the left kidney.
🙅 What it does not mean
- It does not mean something is wrong. Many incidental findings are harmless.
- It does not mean it was missed before. It may simply never have been scanned before.
- It does not always need action. The report or your doctor will say if follow-up is needed.
🎯 Check yourself
Which of these is the right meaning of “Incidental finding”?
🗒️ Questions to ask your doctor
🧾 Reports where you will see “Incidental finding”
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🔗 Read more from trusted sources
- “Incidental finding” on MedlinePlus ↗
US National Library of Medicine
- RadiologyInfo.org ↗
Radiological Society of North America and American College of Radiology
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General information about a medical word, not advice about your own results. Ask the clinician who ordered the test what it means for you.