COVID-19 pandemic has led to a vast increase in the number of teleconsultations. These images alongside are a perfect example of misinterpreted diagnosis due to unwanted importance to radiological investigations without performing a proper clinical examination. The X-ray chest PA view (see Figure 1) was advised by family physician of the patient on a well-known multiplatform messaging app when the patient complained of "chhati mai gaath hai" (translated to English: "swelling in the chest"). After seeing the X-ray on the same messaging app, the doctor further advised a computed tomography scan of the chest (see Figure 2); still unaware of the plane of the swelling. The patient, having trust in his family physician, underwent the unnecessary investigation. On viewing the CT scan films, the physician referred the patient to our higher center for excision.
Had the family physician examined the patient during the first consultation itself, (at least by inspection!); the patient would not have required to go through the extra investigation (see Figure 3).
None.
Not required.
Figure 1: The X-ray chest PA view.
Figure 2: Computed tomography scan of the chest.
Figure 3: Swelling in the chest.