A Radiologist’s Idea of a Definitive Report

Here is an excerpt from the text of a CT scan report I received today:

The appendix is dilated and mildly thick walled with mild surrounding induration [sic]. There is gas within the lumen, but there is also an appendicolith at the base of the appendix with a smaller appendicolith in the mid appendix. The findings are concerning for appendicitis. No other inflammatory changes are seen. There is no adenopathy or free fluid.

IMPRESSION:

The appendix is dilated and mildly thick walled with suggestion of mild surrounding inflammatory change, although there is air within the lumen. There is an appendicolith at the base of the cecum. The findings are suspicious for mild acute appendicitis. Clinical and laboratory correlation are recommended.

I think it's somewhat mild. Don't you?

As the old joke goes, what is the radiologist’s favorite plant? The “hedge.”