Abbreviations, acronyms and synonyms
Related Terms
Medical terminology, prescription, terminology.
Background
Medical practitioners use a variety of abbreviations, acronyms, and synonyms in order to quickly record and refer to patient information. These shortened forms of words are sometimes also used for prescriptions. Many medical terms have their origins in Latin because doctors used to write out prescriptions in Latin.
In general, medical abbreviations, acronyms, and synonyms are typically only used by individuals who are healthcare practitioners. However, understanding these terms may help a patient decipher their medical records.
Medical abbreviations, acronyms, and synonyms are generally established for most common conditions and directives.
As technology changes the way medicine is practiced, an increasing number of medical abbreviations, acronyms and synonyms are being incorporated into the health care lexicon.
Author information
This information has been edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).