This glossary explains key terms used in FRCR exam preparation and radiology case practice. It is designed to help candidates understand concepts, improve exam readiness, and navigate structured short and oral case learning.
Each definition links subtly to the main platform or subscription pages to help you explore full exam-style case practice.
An imaging appearance caused by technical factors rather than true pathology. Recognising artefacts helps avoid misinterpretation in both exams and clinical practice.
Case-based learning involves practising with real or simulated radiology cases to reinforce knowledge, improve interpretation skills, and prepare for the FRCR exam.
A phrase used in radiology reports indicating that imaging findings should be interpreted alongside the patient’s clinical presentation and history.
Differential diagnosis is a list of possible conditions that could explain the imaging findings. Candidates must consider clinical context and imaging patterns to prioritise the most likely possibilities.
Exam confidence is developed by repeated practice with realistic short and oral cases, familiarising candidates with exam format, timing, and expectations.
The FRCR 2B exam is the final clinical component of the FRCR qualification, assessing structured reporting, short case interpretation, and oral examination skills. Candidates are tested on imaging interpretation, reasoning, and communication. Regular engagement with structured FRCR case practice helps candidates develop these skills and build confidence in exam-style scenarios.
The summary section of a radiology report highlighting the key findings and most likely diagnosis. A clear impression is essential for effective communication and exam performance.
An unexpected abnormality seen on imaging that is unrelated to the clinical question but may still require follow-up or documentation.
The scoring criteria used by examiners to assess interpretation, reporting structure, and reasoning during the FRCR 2B exam.
An anatomical variation that is not pathological but may appear unusual on imaging. Recognising normal variants is important to avoid over-diagnosis.
Oral cases are viva-style exercises where candidates describe imaging findings, provide differential diagnoses, and justify reasoning. They assess verbal communication, clinical thinking, and structured reporting under timed conditions.
A digital system used to store, retrieve, and review radiology images. Familiarity with PACS is important for practising case interpretation and preparing for exams.
Pattern recognition is the ability to quickly identify common imaging appearances, abnormalities, and diagnostic clues. It is essential for short case and oral exam efficiency.
Reporting skills involve describing imaging findings clearly, logically, and concisely. These skills are assessed in both short and oral cases during the FRCR 2B exam.
A component of the FRCR 2B exam where candidates interpret imaging and produce structured written reports within a set time. It assesses clarity, accuracy, and clinical reasoning.
A consistent method used to review imaging systematically to ensure all areas are assessed and abnormalities are not missed.
Short cases are rapid image interpretation exercises used in the FRCR 2B exam to test diagnostic accuracy, speed, and structured reporting. They cover common imaging topics and allow candidates to practise exam-style scenarios.
Structured reporting is a systematic approach to describing radiology findings clearly and logically, aligned with FRCR marking criteria. It ensures completeness, consistency, and exam-ready reporting.
A structured method for reviewing imaging studies to ensure no findings are missed. This approach underpins accuracy and safety in both clinical practice and exam scenarios.
The ability to interpret and report imaging efficiently within exam time limits while maintaining accuracy and clarity.
A face-to-face discussion where candidates describe imaging findings, provide differential diagnoses, and justify reasoning to examiners.
Written by FRCR-qualified radiologists with experience in exam preparation and training.