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Table 3 Examples of cognitive biases likely to feature in faulty radiological thinking [1, 42]

From: Error and discrepancy in radiology: inevitable or avoidable?

Bias

Explanation

Anchoring bias

During the process of reporting a study, the radiologist fixes upon an early impression, and fails to adapt or change that view, discounting any subsequent information that may conflict

Framing bias

The radiologist is unduly influenced by the way the question or problem is framed, e.g. if the clinical information provided in a request for a CT states “young patient with palpable mass, probable Crohn’s disease”, a bowel mass may be interpreted as being likely due to Crohn’s, discounting possible malignancy

Availability bias

Tendency to suggest diagnoses that readily come to mind.

Confirmation bias

Tendency to seek evidence to support a diagnostic hypothesis already made, and to ignore evidence refuting that hypothesis

Satisfaction of search

Tendency to stop looking for additional abnormal findings on a study once an initial probable diagnosis is identified

Premature closure

Tendency to accept a diagnosis before proof or verification is obtained

Outcome bias

Naturally empathic inclination to favour a diagnosis that will result in a more favourable outcome for the patient, even if unsupported by evidence

Zebra retreat

Inclination of a radiologist to hold back from making a rare diagnosis due to lack of confidence about reporting such an unusual condition, despite supporting evidence