Misinterpretation refers to the incorrect or misleading explanation of data, results, or outcomes, often due to overstatement, omission of context, or failure to consider alternative explanations.

• Drawing causal conclusions from correlational or observational data
• Ignoring confidence intervals, effect sizes, or limitations
• Highlighting statistically significant findings without clinical relevance
• Downplaying adverse results or inconsistencies

• A study finds that functional outcomes at 6 months are “similar” between microsurgical and endovascular groups but fails to emphasize the significant early morbidity in the surgical cohort, misleading readers into thinking both approaches are equally safe.

• Leads to inappropriate clinical decisions
• Misinforms guidelines, policy, and patient counseling
• Perpetuates biased or distorted scientific narratives
• Erodes trust in evidence-based medicine

• Interpret results within the limits of the study design
• Present absolute and relative risks with context
• Discuss alternative interpretations and confounding factors
• Avoid overstating conclusions beyond the data