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Back to the 14 October 2026 edition

Pearl · 04 of 05

A negative CT does not close the question when the history is suspicious

Say what a normal study cannot exclude, and suggest a next step if symptoms persist.

Report what the study can and cannot exclude. A normal scan with a suspicious history should say so, and name the next step if symptoms persist, such as repeat imaging, a different modality or clinical review.

  • State the limits of the technique in the report when relevant.
  • Recommend a specific next test when the clinical question remains open.
  • Make sure comparison studies are reviewed, not just the latest one.
  • Speak to the referrer when a finding changes urgency.

Why it matters

Referrers read a normal report as reassurance unless told otherwise.

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