Editorial: Errors or Discrepancies in Radiology Reports

In diagnostic radiology every radiologist worries about over or under reporting a scan due to its clinical implication on patient’s management as well as due to its medico-legal aspect. According to Robinson, Radiology’s Achilles heel is “error and variation in the interpretation of the Roentgen image”. An error or discrepancy (as used by Royal College of Radiology) in the interpretation of a radiograph, including misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose, is an example of a general type of claim in radiology. However, failure to diagnose (includes both oversight or misinterpretation of an abnormality) is the most common reason that have led to medical malpractice lawsuits.