Approach to incidental imaging findings
How to manage incidental imaging findings detected during research
In July 2010 researchers from BRIC were instrumental in arranging an ethical debate on research imaging management of incidental findings. A symposium took place at the Wellcome Trust in London; the aim of this symposium was to bring together the stakeholders in research imaging management, including a range of professionals from research imaging centres, professional organisations whose members use imaging in research, ethicists, research funders and regulatory bodies. The meeting discussed and highlighted the magnitude and potential implications of incidental findings. It provided information concerning good practice in managing incidental findings in research imaging of both "normal" volunteers and patients, consequently highlighting issues related to ethics. The meeting enabled current opinions to be summarised on concerns and practical aspects of managing incidental findings.
Following this symposium new guidlines have been established to encourage best imaging research practice in the UK, within practical limitations, to facilitate future imaging research.
This report "Management of Incidental Findings Detected During Research Imaging", was prepared by representatives of Research Imaging Centres, Professional Societies, Regulatory Bodies, Funding Organisations, Royal Colleges involved in reserach imaging and Patient Organisations, in the United Kingdom:
