#
#
Fracture
The universal symbol for a fracture query. e.g., "#NOF" (Neck of Femur).
(
(L)
Left
Indicates laterality. Essential for correct marking.
(R)
Right
Indicates laterality. Essential for correct marking.
?
?
Query
Indicates a question to be answered by the scan. e.g., "?Fracture".
A
A&E
Accident & Emergency
Patient location - often requires urgent imaging.
AAA
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Referral for Ultrasound (US) or CT Angiogram (CTA).
AAD
Acute Aortic Dissection
Emergency indication for CTA chest.
ABDO
Abdomen
General term for an abdominal X-ray, US, or CT.
ABG
Arterial Blood Gas
Respiratory, ICU, Emergency
ACJ
Acromioclavicular Joint
Shoulder/clavicle X-ray, often for dislocation or arthritis.
ACL
Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Knee MRI referral, usually for trauma/sports injury.
ADEM
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Indication for brain/spinal MRI.
AF
Atrial Fibrillation
Patient history, relevant for cardiac CT or pre-contrast checks.
AI
Aortic Incompetence
Heart valve disease - cardiac imaging.
AICD
Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Cardiology, Pre-MRI/CT
AKI
Acute Kidney Injury
Important for contrast safety assessment.
ALARA
As Low As Reasonably Achievable
Radiation Safety
AP
Anteroposterior
A standard X-ray projection/view.
ARD
Adult Respiratory Distress
See ARDS - indication for CXR monitoring.
ARDS
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Indication for CXR monitoring and CT chest.
ARF
Acute Renal Failure
Important for contrast safety assessment.
AS
Aortic Stenosis / Ankylosing Spondylitis
Context dependent - cardiac or spinal imaging.
ASD
Atrial Septal Defect
Heart defect - relevant for cardiac imaging.
AVN
Avascular Necrosis
Indication for MRI, commonly hip or shoulder.
AVM
Arteriovenous Malformation
Neuro, Vascular Imaging
AXR
Abdominal X-Ray
Standard supine abdominal X-ray.
B
B/G
Background
Refers to patient's background medical history.
BAL
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Lung procedure - may require CXR follow-up.
BBB
Bundle Branch Block
ECG finding relevant for cardiac imaging.
BE
Barium Enema
Fluoroscopic study of large bowel.
BI-RADS
Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System
Used in mammography and breast US reports.
BIRADS
Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System
Mammography/breast imaging classification system.
BM
Bone Metastases
Indication for a bone scan, CT, or MRI.
BMA
Bone Marrow Aspirate
May be image-guided procedure.
BMD
Bone Mineral Density
DEXA scan measurement.
BMT
Bone Marrow Transplant
Patient history affecting imaging choices.
BNP
B-type Natriuretic Peptide
Blood test for heart failure.
BO
Bowel Obstruction
Common indication for abdominal X-ray or CT.
BOOP
Bronchiolitis Obliterans Organizing Pneumonia
Lung condition - CXR/CT chest indication.
BP
Blood Pressure
Vital sign relevant for contrast safety.
BPD
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Chronic lung disease in preterm infants.
BPH
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
May be indication for US or MRI pelvis.
BRCA
Breast Cancer Gene
Genetic mutation - breast/ovarian cancer screening.
BS
Barium Swallow / Breath Sounds
Context dependent - GI study or clinical finding.
BSO
Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy
Surgical history relevant for pelvic imaging.
Bx
Biopsy
Often image-guided (US, CT, or MRI).
C
Ca
Cancer / Carcinoma
e.g., "? Lung Ca". Indicates a query for malignancy.
CABG
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
Seen on CXR referrals, indicates sternal wires will be visible.
CT
Computed Tomography
The imaging modality itself.
CVA
Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke)
Indication for urgent non-contrast CT Head.
CXR
Chest X-Ray
Extremely common referral.
C-Spine
Cervical Spine
X-ray, CT, or MRI of the neck.
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Common indication for CXR and CT chest.
CCF
Congestive Cardiac Failure
Indication for CXR to assess pulmonary edema.
CTA
CT Angiogram
CT with IV contrast to visualize blood vessels.
CTPA
CT Pulmonary Angiogram
Specific CT for pulmonary embolism detection.
CDH
Congenital Dislocation of Hip
Indication for hip US in infants.
CAD
Coronary Artery Disease
Indication for cardiac CT or angiography.
CKD
Chronic Kidney Disease
Important for contrast safety assessment.
CHF
Congestive Heart Failure
Same as CCF - indication for CXR.
COAD
Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease
Same as COPD - indication for CXR/CT chest.
CEA
Carcinoembryonic Antigen
Tumor marker blood test.
CRP
C-Reactive Protein
Inflammatory marker blood test.
CPAP
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Sleep apnea treatment - airway imaging.
CNS
Central Nervous System
Brain and spinal cord imaging.
CSF
Cerebrospinal Fluid
May require lumbar puncture guidance.
CBD
Common Bile Duct
Structure assessed on US, MRCP, or ERCP.
CMV
Cytomegalovirus
Infection affecting immunocompromised patients.
COB
Chronic Obstructive Bronchitis
Lung condition - CXR indication.
CLD
Chronic Liver Disease
Indication for liver imaging and contrast caution.
CIN
Contrast-Induced Nephropathy
Risk factor for IV contrast administration.
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Common indication for CXR and CT chest.
CRF
Chronic Renal Failure
Important for contrast safety assessment.
CRC
Colorectal Cancer
Indication for CT colonography or staging CT.
CABG
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
Surgical history - sternotomy wires visible on CXR.
CIED
Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device
Pacemaker/ICD - MRI safety concern.
CLL
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Blood cancer - surveillance imaging needed.
CRRT
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Dialysis type - affects contrast decisions.
D
DIPJ
Distal Interphalangeal Joint
Finger or toe X-rays.
DJD
Degenerative Joint Disease (Osteoarthritis)
Common indication for any joint X-ray.
DP
Dorsoplantar
Standard X-ray view of the foot.
DVT
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Primary indication for a Doppler US of the leg.
DM
Diabetes Mellitus
Important medical history for contrast safety.
DDH
Developmental Dysplasia of Hip
See CDH - indication for infant hip US.
DEXA
Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry
Bone density scan for osteoporosis assessment.
DMSA
Dimercaptosuccinic Acid
Nuclear medicine kidney scan.
DTPA
Diethylenetriamine Pentaacetic Acid
Nuclear medicine kidney scan.
DIC
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
Bleeding disorder - affects contrast decisions.
DSA
Digital Subtraction Angiography
Advanced angiographic technique.
DWI
Diffusion Weighted Imaging
MRI sequence for stroke detection.
DOB
Date of Birth
Patient identification information.
DOA
Dead on Arrival
May require post-mortem imaging.
DRE
Digital Rectal Examination
Clinical finding relevant for pelvic imaging.
DIP
Distal Interphalangeal
Finger/toe joint - same as DIPJ.
DLCO
Diffusion Capacity of the Lung
Pulmonary function test.
DCIS
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Non-invasive breast cancer - mammography finding.
DTI
Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Advanced MRI technique for white matter tracts.
DISH
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis
Spinal condition - X-ray findings.
DICOM
Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine
Standard format for medical images.
DBT
Digital Breast Tomosynthesis
3D mammography technique.
DAI
Diffuse Axonal Injury
Brain trauma - MRI indication.
E
eGFR
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate
Kidney function test, crucial before administering IV contrast.
ERCP
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
Fluoroscopic procedure to image the biliary ducts.
ECG/EKG
Electrocardiogram
Heart rhythm monitoring, relevant for cardiac imaging.
ECHO
Echocardiogram
Ultrasound of the heart.
EUA
Examination Under Anesthesia
May require intraoperative imaging.
ESR
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
Inflammatory marker blood test.
EBV
Epstein-Barr Virus
Infection causing lymphadenopathy.
ETT
Endotracheal Tube
Breathing tube - position checked on CXR.
EMG
Electromyography
Nerve/muscle test - may guide imaging.
EEG
Electroencephalography
Brain wave test - may guide brain imaging.
ESRD
End-Stage Renal Disease
Severe kidney disease - contrast contraindication.
EPC
Epilepsy / Epileptic
May require brain MRI or CT.
EPO
Erythropoietin
Hormone affecting red blood cell production.
ED
Emergency Department
Same as A&E - patient location.
ECMO
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Life support device - visible on CXR.
EMG
Electromyography
Muscle/nerve test - may guide imaging.
EPIC
Electronic Patient Information Care
Medical record system.
ELISA
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Laboratory test method.
EBV
Epstein-Barr Virus
Viral infection - may affect lymph nodes.
EVLA
Endovenous Laser Ablation
Vein treatment - follow-up US.
F
FAP
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Genetic condition requiring GI surveillance.
FAST
Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma
Emergency, Trauma
FB
Foreign Body
Indication for X-ray or CT to locate an object.
FBC
Full Blood Count
Blood test - relevant for contrast safety.
FDG
Fluorodeoxyglucose
PET scan tracer.
FESS
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
May require pre-op CT sinuses.
FEV1
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second
Lung function measurement.
FFP
Fresh Frozen Plasma
Blood product - may affect coagulation.
FHx
Family History
Genetic/familial medical background.
FiO2
Fraction of Inspired Oxygen
Oxygen level - relevant for ICU patients.
FISH
Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Genetic test on biopsy specimens.
FLAIR
Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery
MRI sequence for brain imaging.
FMRI
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Advanced brain imaging technique.
FNA
Fine Needle Aspiration
Biopsy, Cytology
FNAC
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology
Image-guided tissue sampling.
FOOSH
Fall On Outstretched Hand
Common mechanism of injury for wrist/scaphoid fractures.
FRAX
Fracture Risk Assessment Tool
Osteoporosis risk calculator using DEXA.
FSH
Follicle Stimulating Hormone
Hormone level - may affect imaging timing.
FTD
Frontotemporal Dementia
Brain imaging indication.
FU
Follow-Up
Indicates a repeat scan to check progress.
FUO
Fever of Unknown Origin
Indication for CT chest/abdo/pelvis to find a source of infection.
FVC
Forced Vital Capacity
Lung function test result.
G
GI
Gastrointestinal
Related to stomach and intestines - GI studies, CT abdo.
GB
Gallbladder
Indication for US abdomen or MRCP.
GU
Genitourinary
Related to kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs.
GSW
Gunshot Wound
Trauma indication for CT or X-ray.
GCS
Glasgow Coma Scale
Neurological assessment score.
GORD
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Indication for barium swallow or CT.
GFR
Glomerular Filtration Rate
Kidney function - crucial for contrast safety.
GTN
Glyceryl Trinitrate
Heart medication - relevant for cardiac imaging.
GA
General Anesthesia
May be required for certain procedures.
GBM
Glioblastoma Multiforme
Brain tumor - indication for brain MRI.
GIST
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Abdominal tumor - CT indication.
GGT
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase
Liver function blood test.
GH
Growth Hormone
May require pituitary MRI.
GRE
Gradient Recalled Echo
MRI sequence for hemorrhage detection.
GVHD
Graft Versus Host Disease
Transplant complication - imaging surveillance.
GD
Gadolinium
MRI contrast agent.
GERD
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Same as GORD - swallow study indication.
GSTT
Gastric Sleeve/Sleeve Gastrectomy
Bariatric surgery - follow-up imaging.
H
HAART
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
HIV treatment affecting imaging decisions.
HBV
Hepatitis B Virus
Blood-borne infection - relevant for safety protocols.
HCC
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Liver cancer - indication for liver imaging.
HCM
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Heart condition - cardiac imaging indication.
HCV
Hepatitis C Virus
Liver infection - affects liver imaging.
HDU
High Dependency Unit
Patient location - may require portable imaging.
HIDA
Hepatobiliary Iminodiacetic Acid Scan
Nuclear Medicine, Hepatobiliary
HIV
Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Immunocompromised state - affects imaging choices.
HOCM
Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Heart condition - cardiac MRI indication.
HPC
History of Presenting Complaint
The clinical story behind the referral.
HPV
Human Papillomavirus
May cause cervical/head-neck cancers.
HRCT
High Resolution Computed Tomography
Specialized chest CT for lung disease.
HRT
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Medication affecting breast imaging timing.
HSG
Hysterosalpingogram
Fluoroscopic study of fallopian tubes and uterus.
HSV
Herpes Simplex Virus
Viral infection - may affect brain imaging.
HTN
Hypertension
High blood pressure - relevant for contrast safety.
HUS
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Kidney condition - may require renal imaging.
Hx
History
Patient's medical history.
I
IDC
Indwelling Catheter
Urinary catheter, important to note for pelvic/abdo imaging.
IHD
Ischemic Heart Disease
Patient history, relevant for cardiac scans and contrast safety.
IVC
Intravenous Cannula / Inferior Vena Cava
Context is key. Either notes patient access or a structure to assess on US/CT.
IVU
Intravenous Urogram
Older term for a CT KUB or fluoroscopic study of the urinary system.
IBD
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Indication for CT enterography or MR enterography.
ICU
Intensive Care Unit
Patient location - often requires portable CXR.
IPF
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Indication for HRCT chest.
INR
International Normalized Ratio
Clotting test - important for procedures.
ICP
Intracranial Pressure
Brain pressure - may require head CT.
IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Functional bowel disorder.
IUGR
Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Pregnancy complication - obstetric US.
IUD
Intrauterine Device
Contraceptive device visible on pelvic imaging.
IV
Intravenous
Route of contrast administration.
IOL
Intraocular Lens
Artificial lens - may affect head imaging.
IM
Intramuscular
Route of medication administration.
IT
Intrathecal
Route into spinal fluid space.
IPH
Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage
Brain bleeding - CT head indication.
IDH
Isocitrate Dehydrogenase
Brain tumor marker - affects prognosis.
IABP
Intra-aortic Balloon Pump
Cardiac support device - visible on CXR.
ICA
Internal Carotid Artery
Vessel assessed on CTA/MRA neck.
IOL
Intraocular Lens
Cataract implant - visible on head CT.
J
JVP
Jugular Venous Pressure
Clinical finding relevant for cardiac imaging.
JIA
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Childhood arthritis - joint imaging indication.
JVD
Jugular Venous Distension
Clinical sign of heart failure.
JPS
Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome
Genetic condition requiring GI surveillance.
K
KUB
Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder
Standard abdominal X-ray view; also used for CT scans of the urinary tract.
K+
Potassium
Blood chemistry level - relevant for contrast safety.
KCO
Transfer Coefficient for Carbon Monoxide
Lung function test.
kVp
Kilovoltage Peak
X-ray tube setting for image quality.
KS
Kaposi Sarcoma
Cancer in HIV patients - imaging indication.
KD
Kawasaki Disease
Childhood condition - cardiac imaging needed.
L
LBP
Low Back Pain
Very common reason for Lumbar Spine X-ray or MRI.
LMP
Last Menstrual Period
Crucial information for all female patients of childbearing age.
LOC
Loss of Consciousness
Common clinical detail in head trauma/CT Head requests.
L-Spine
Lumbar Spine
X-ray, CT, or MRI of the lower back.
LAD
Left Anterior Descending (artery)
Coronary artery - relevant for cardiac CT or angiography.
LFT
Liver Function Tests
Blood tests relevant for contrast safety and liver imaging.
LUQ
Left Upper Quadrant
Abdominal region for focused imaging.
LLQ
Left Lower Quadrant
Abdominal region for focused imaging.
LV
Left Ventricle
Heart chamber - relevant for cardiac imaging.
LAP
Left Atrial Pressure
Cardiac measurement.
LAM
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Rare lung disease - HRCT indication.
LA
Left Atrium
Heart chamber - cardiac imaging.
LABA
Long-Acting Beta Agonist
Respiratory medication.
LE
Lower Extremity
Leg - for X-ray, CT, or MRI of leg.
LP
Lumbar Puncture
Spinal tap - may be image-guided.
LDH
Lactate Dehydrogenase
Blood test for tissue damage.
LSE
Left Sternal Edge
Anatomical reference point.
LN
Lymph Node
Structure assessed on imaging.
LAD
Left Anterior Descending
Coronary artery - cardiac imaging.
LFT
Liver Function Test
Blood tests affecting contrast decisions.
LUQ
Left Upper Quadrant
Abdominal region - imaging reference.
LLQ
Left Lower Quadrant
Abdominal region - imaging reference.
LVEF
Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Heart function measurement.
LUTS
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Urological symptoms - imaging indication.
M
MCPJ
Metacarpophalangeal Joint
Hand X-rays.
Mets
Metastases
Spread of cancer. See BM (Bone Mets).
MI
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Patient history, relevant for cardiac imaging and contrast safety.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
The imaging modality itself.
MSK
Musculoskeletal
General term for imaging of bones, joints, and soft tissues.
MRCP
Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography
MRI study of bile ducts and pancreatic duct.
MRA
Magnetic Resonance Angiography
MRI study of blood vessels.
MTPJ
Metatarsophalangeal Joint
Foot X-rays, especially for bunions or arthritis.
MVP
Mitral Valve Prolapse
Heart condition relevant for cardiac imaging.
MAG3
Mercaptoacetyltriglycine
Nuclear medicine kidney scan tracer.
MAC
Mycobacterium Avium Complex
Atypical TB infection.
MDR
Multi-Drug Resistant
Resistant infection - isolation precautions.
MEN
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia
Genetic syndrome requiring multiple imaging.
MPS
Myocardial Perfusion Scan
Nuclear medicine heart scan.
MS
Multiple Sclerosis / Mitral Stenosis
Context dependent - brain MRI or cardiac.
MG
Myasthenia Gravis
Muscle weakness disorder - may affect imaging.
MM
Multiple Myeloma
Blood cancer - bone survey indication.
MBq
Megabecquerel
Unit of radioactivity in nuclear medicine.
MRSA
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
Resistant infection - isolation precautions.
MIBG
Meta-Iodobenzylguanidine
Nuclear medicine scan for neural crest tumors.
MCL
Medial Collateral Ligament
Knee ligament - MRI indication.
MMR
Measles, Mumps, Rubella
Vaccination status affecting infection risk.
MI
Myocardial Infarction
Heart attack - cardiac imaging indication.
N
NAD
No Abnormality Detected
Used in previous imaging reports.
NGT
Nasogastric Tube
Common reason for a mobile CXR is to check NGT position.
NOF
Neck of Femur
Often written as "?#NOF". Common hip fracture location.
NSAID
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug
Medication history relevant for contrast nephrotoxicity.
NBM
Nil By Mouth
Fasting status for contrast studies or procedures.
NEC
Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Pediatric condition requiring serial abdominal X-rays.
NHL
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Blood cancer - staging CT/PET indication.
NET
Neuroendocrine Tumor
Hormone-producing tumor - special imaging.
NPO
Nil Per Os (Nothing by mouth)
Same as NBM - fasting status.
NSTEMI
Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Type of heart attack.
NF
Neurofibromatosis
Genetic condition - multiple imaging needs.
Na+
Sodium
Blood chemistry level.
NPH
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Brain condition - indication for brain imaging.
NMR
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Old term for MRI.
NSCLC
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Type of lung cancer - staging imaging.
O
OA
Osteoarthritis
See DJD.
O/E
On Examination
Refers to the referring clinician's physical findings.
OGD
Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy
An endoscopic procedure, sometimes relevant history for a Barium Swallow.
OPG
Orthopantomogram
A panoramic dental X-ray.
ORIF
Open Reduction Internal Fixation
Surgical procedure requiring post-op X-rays.
OSA
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
May require airway CT or MRI.
OP
Outpatient
Patient status/location.
OCP
Oral Contraceptive Pill
Medication affecting thrombosis risk.
OD
Once Daily / Overdose / Right Eye
Context dependent - medication or clinical.
OS
Left Eye
Anatomical reference for eye imaging.
OU
Both Eyes
Anatomical reference for eye imaging.
ORIF
Open Reduction Internal Fixation
Surgical procedure requiring post-op X-rays.
OSA
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
May require airway CT or MRI.
OT
Operating Theatre
Patient location - may require mobile imaging.
OHSS
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Fertility treatment complication - pelvic imaging.
OLT
Orthotopic Liver Transplant
Surgical history affecting imaging choices.
P
PA
Posteroanterior
The standard projection for an erect CXR.
PACS
Picture Archiving and Communication System
Imaging IT, Workflow
PCI
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Cardiac catheterization procedure.
PE
Pulmonary Embolism
The primary indication for a CTPA (CT Pulmonary Angiogram).
PIC/PICC
Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter
A line whose tip position is often checked with a CXR.
PMH
Past Medical History
Same as Hx.
PN
Pneumonia
A common indication for a CXR.
PTX
Pneumothorax
Collapsed lung. Indication for an urgent CXR.
PET
Positron Emission Tomography
Nuclear medicine scan, often combined with CT (PET-CT).
PIPJ
Proximal Interphalangeal Joint
Finger X-rays.
PCI
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Cardiac catheterization procedure.
PID
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Indication for pelvic US or MRI.
PUO
Pyrexia of Unknown Origin
Same as FUO - fever investigation.
PSA
Prostate Specific Antigen
Prostate cancer screening blood test.
PFT
Pulmonary Function Test
Lung function assessment.
PACS
Picture Archiving and Communication System
Medical imaging storage system.
PAD
Peripheral Artery Disease
Circulation problem - angiography indication.
PDA
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Heart defect - cardiac imaging.
PCR
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Laboratory test for infections.
PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Indication for pelvic ultrasound.
PML
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy
Brain infection - MRI indication.
PPH
Postpartum Hemorrhage
Obstetric emergency - may require imaging.
PSA
Prostate Specific Antigen
Blood test for prostate cancer screening.
PTE
Pulmonary Thromboembolism
Same as PE - CTPA indication.
PTH
Parathyroid Hormone
Blood test affecting bone metabolism.
PFT
Pulmonary Function Test
Lung function assessment.
PMH
Past Medical History
Patient's previous medical conditions.
PICC
Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter
Central line - visible on CXR.
PVD
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Same as PAD - vascular imaging.
Q
QCT
Quantitative Computed Tomography
CT for bone density measurement.
QUS
Quantitative Ultrasound
Bone density assessment using ultrasound.
R
RA
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Indication for hand/foot X-rays to assess for erosions.
RCC
Renal Cell Carcinoma
A type of kidney cancer; indication for CT Abdo/Pelvis.
RTC
Road Traffic Collision (or Return to Clinic)
Mechanism of injury in trauma referrals. Context is key.
RUQ
Right Upper Quadrant
Abdominal region for focused imaging.
RLQ
Right Lower Quadrant
Abdominal region for focused imaging.
RF
Rheumatoid Factor
Blood test for rheumatoid arthritis.
RV
Right Ventricle
Heart chamber - relevant for cardiac imaging.
RTA
Road Traffic Accident
Same as RTC - trauma mechanism.
RA
Rheumatoid Arthritis / Right Atrium
Context dependent - joint disease or heart chamber.
RBBB
Right Bundle Branch Block
ECG finding - heart conduction problem.
RBC
Red Blood Cell
Blood component count.
RDS
Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Breathing problem - CXR indication.
RSV
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Respiratory infection in children.
ROM
Range of Motion
Joint movement assessment.
RIS
Radiology Information System
Hospital imaging management system.
RCC
Renal Cell Carcinoma
Kidney cancer - CT indication.
RUL
Right Upper Lobe
Lung anatomy reference.
RLL
Right Lower Lobe
Lung anatomy reference.
RML
Right Middle Lobe
Lung anatomy reference.
RIJ
Right Internal Jugular
Central line insertion site.
RPG
Retrograde Pyelogram
Urological imaging procedure.
RIF
Right Iliac Fossa
Abdominal region - appendix location.
S
SAH
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Type of brain bleed, indication for urgent CT Head.
SLE
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Autoimmune condition affecting multiple organs.
SOB
Shortness of Breath
Very common indication for a CXR or CTPA.
SPECT
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography
Nuclear Medicine
STAT
Immediately
From Latin 'statim'. Indicates an urgent scan request.
SBO
Small Bowel Obstruction
Indication for CT abdomen/pelvis.
SLE
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Autoimmune condition affecting multiple organs.
STEMI
ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Type of heart attack - relevant for cardiac imaging.
SVC
Superior Vena Cava
Large vein - may be assessed on CT chest.
SI
Sacroiliac (joint)
Joint between spine and pelvis - X-ray or MRI.
SIRS
Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Body's response to infection - may require imaging.
SCLC
Small Cell Lung Cancer
Type of lung cancer - staging imaging.
SCA
Sickle Cell Anemia
Blood disorder affecting multiple organs.
SDH
Subdural Hemorrhage
Brain bleed - urgent CT head indication.
SVT
Supraventricular Tachycardia
Heart rhythm problem.
SCC
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Type of cancer - various imaging needs.
SPECT
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography
Nuclear medicine imaging technique.
STD
Sexually Transmitted Disease
May affect pelvic imaging interpretation.
SFA
Superficial Femoral Artery
Leg vessel - angiography reference.
SIRS
Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Sepsis-related condition.
SSRI
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor
Antidepressant medication class.
SMA
Superior Mesenteric Artery
Abdominal vessel - CT angiography.
SBFT
Small Bowel Follow Through
Fluoroscopic GI study.
SIADH
Syndrome of Inappropriate ADH Secretion
Electrolyte disorder affecting imaging timing.
T
TCI
To Come In
Indicates the patient is being scheduled for a future appointment.
THR/TKR
Total Hip/Knee Replacement
Indication for post-op or follow-up X-rays.
TIA
Transient Ischemic Attack
"Mini-stroke". Indication for CT/MRI Head and Carotid US.
T-Spine
Thoracic Spine
X-ray, CT, or MRI of the mid-back.
TAH
Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
Surgical history relevant for pelvic imaging.
TAVI
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Cardiology, Interventional
TB
Tuberculosis
Infection indication for CXR and CT chest.
TEE
Transesophageal Echocardiogram
Specialized cardiac ultrasound.
TMJ
Temporomandibular Joint
Jaw joint - X-ray, CT, or MRI.
TTE
Transthoracic Echocardiogram
Standard cardiac ultrasound.
TSH
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
Thyroid function blood test.
TFT
Thyroid Function Test
Blood tests for thyroid function.
TOF
Tetralogy of Fallot
Complex heart defect - cardiac imaging.
TPN
Total Parenteral Nutrition
IV nutrition - line position on CXR.
TURP
Transurethral Resection of Prostate
Prostate surgery - may affect imaging.
TVS
Transvaginal Scan
Pelvic ultrasound technique.
TAS
Transabdominal Scan
Abdominal ultrasound technique.
TRUS
Transrectal Ultrasound
Prostate imaging technique.
TIPS
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt
Liver procedure - may be visible on imaging.
U
US/USS
Ultrasound / Ultrasound Scan
The imaging modality itself.
UTI
Urinary Tract Infection
May be an indication for a KUB or Renal US, especially if recurrent.
U&E
Urea and Electrolytes
Blood test results crucial for contrast safety.
UGI
Upper Gastrointestinal
Barium swallow or CT study of upper GI tract.
UE
Upper Extremity
Arm - for X-ray, CT, or MRI of arm/shoulder.
UC
Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease - CT enterography.
UAC
Umbilical Artery Catheter
Neonatal line - position checked on X-ray.
UVC
Umbilical Venous Catheter
Neonatal line - position checked on X-ray.
USS
Ultrasound Scan
Same as US - ultrasound imaging.
UIP
Usual Interstitial Pneumonia
Lung fibrosis pattern - HRCT indication.
UV
Ultraviolet
Type of radiation - skin cancer risk.
UMN
Upper Motor Neuron
Neurological pathway - brain/spine imaging.
UTD
Up to Date
Current status notation.
URI
Upper Respiratory Infection
Common cold/flu - may affect chest imaging.
V
VQ
Ventilation-Perfusion (scan)
Nuclear medicine lung scan for pulmonary embolism.
VTE
Venous Thromboembolism
Blood clots - indication for CTPA or Doppler US.
VCUG
Voiding Cystourethrogram
Fluoroscopic study of bladder and urethra.
VSD
Ventricular Septal Defect
Heart defect - relevant for cardiac imaging.
VF
Ventricular Fibrillation
Dangerous heart rhythm.
VT
Ventricular Tachycardia
Fast heart rhythm from ventricles.
VP
Ventriculoperitoneal
Type of shunt for hydrocephalus.
VUR
Vesicoureteric Reflux
Kidney condition - VCUG indication.
VATS
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery
Minimally invasive chest surgery.
VHL
Von Hippel-Lindau
Genetic syndrome - multiple tumor surveillance.
VWD
Von Willebrand Disease
Bleeding disorder - affects procedures.
VEGF
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Protein involved in blood vessel growth.
VAD
Ventricular Assist Device
Heart pump - visible on chest imaging.
W
WB
Whole Body
e.g., CT WB Trauma Scan or WB Bone Scan.
WCC
White Cell Count
Blood test indicating infection or inflammation.
WLE
Wide Local Excision
Surgical procedure that may require follow-up imaging.
WPW
Wolff-Parkinson-White
Heart rhythm disorder.
WHO
World Health Organization
International health agency - classification systems.
WNL
Within Normal Limits
Normal test result notation.
WBC
White Blood Cell
Same as WCC - infection marker.
WG
Wegener's Granulomatosis
Autoimmune disease affecting lungs/kidneys.
WT
Wilms Tumor
Childhood kidney cancer - abdominal imaging.
X
XR
X-Ray
The imaging modality itself.
Y
y/o
Years Old
Age notation in medical records.
YOB
Year of Birth
Patient identification information.
Z
ZE
Zollinger-Ellison
Syndrome causing gastric ulcers - GI imaging.
ZMC
Zygomaticomaxillary Complex
Facial fracture - indication for facial CT.
Common Radiology Abbreviations
Below is a list of the most frequently used abbreviations in medical imaging reports. Use the search bar above for the complete database of over 400 terms.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CXR | Chest X-Ray |
| CT / CAT | Computed Tomography |
| MRI | Magnetic Resonance Imaging |
| US / U/S | Ultrasound |
| GCS | Glasgow Coma Scale |
| SOB | Shortness of Breath |
| NAD | No Abnormality Detected |
| LBP | Low Back Pain |
| NOF | Neck of Femur (Hip fracture) |
| MVA / MVC | Motor Vehicle Accident / Collision |
| FOOSH | Fall On Outstretched Hand |
| PE | Pulmonary Embolism (or Pleural Effusion) |