Radiology glossary

Radiology findings, explained in plain English

Look up what the terms in your radiology report actually mean — written plainly, with questions to bring to your doctor.

Browse by body region

Spine findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for the words that show up on spine MRI, CT, and X-ray reports — from disc bulges and herniations to stenosis, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, and bone spurs — so you can walk into your doctor's office with better questions.
Knee findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for common knee imaging terms — meniscal and ACL tears, Baker's cysts, kneecap cartilage wear, tendon problems, and joint effusions — what they mean, how MRI and ultrasound show them, and what to ask your doctor.
Shoulder findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for common shoulder imaging terms — rotator cuff tears and tendinopathy, AC joint arthritis, and fractures — what they mean, which scan shows what, and what to ask your doctor.
Hip findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for common hip imaging terms — labral tears, hip osteoarthritis, and bone marrow edema — what they mean, how MRI shows them, and what to ask your doctor.
Chest findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for common chest imaging terms — pleural effusions, lung nodules, pneumonia, cardiomegaly, pulmonary edema, emphysema, and more — what they mean and what to ask your doctor.
Abdomen findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for common abdominal imaging terms — gallstones, kidney stones, fatty liver, liver and kidney cysts, hydronephrosis, diverticulosis, and more — what they mean and what to ask your doctor.
General orthopedic findings, explained
Plain-English explainers for imaging terms that show up all over the body — osteoarthritis, tendinopathy, bursitis, sprains, bone bruises, stress fractures, and cysts — what they mean, which scan shows what, and what to ask your doctor.

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Please note: HivePlainScan provides educational information only. It is not medical advice, it is not a diagnosis, and it does not replace your doctor. Always discuss your results with your physician.