Inappropriate image manipulation in a published article

A reader suspects inappropriate image manipulation in a published article. The guidance offers editors a step by step process when handling the issue, including who to contact and when to consider a retraction, correction or expression of concern.

Key points

• Decisions on what action to take will be influenced by whether manipulation of the images has an effect on the conclusions in the article.
• If it is obvious that parts of an image have been selectively edited, affecting conclusions, there is an option for automatic retraction of the article.
• It is recommended that an expression of concern is published while an institutional investigation is ongoing.
• When an honest error has been detected, publishing a correction or retraction are possible outcomes.
• This flowchart relates only to cases where concerns related to digital photographic images are raised (eg, duplication of parts within an image, or use of identical images to show different things). For wider concerns about potential data fabrication, please use the flowchart Fabricated data in a submitted manuscript.
• Where multiple papers are affected refer to Systematic manipulation of the publication process guidance.

Related resources

• Retraction guidelines
• Fabricated data in a submitted manuscript
• Systematic manipulation of the publication process
• Addressing concerns about systematic manipulation of the publication process