List of medical abbreviations: C

This glossary provides definitions for common medical abbreviations and acronyms, offering quick reference for healthcare professionals and students alike. Please note that while care has been taken to ensure accuracy, abbreviations and acronyms may differ based on local practices and time.

C

• C&S - Culture and Sensitivity testing, which helps to detect and identify bacteria or fungi that may be causing an infection and to determine the most effective antibiotic for treatment. Culture / Sensitivity
• C-SSRS - Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale, a questionnaire used for suicide assessment. Suicide Assessment
• C-section - Cesarean section, a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. Cesarean Delivery
• C-spine - Cervical spine, referring to the neck region of the spinal column. Cervical Spine
• C/C/E - Clubbing, Cyanosis, and Edema, which are findings in physical examinations, often related to cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions.
• C/O or c/o - Complains of, used to describe the symptoms a patient reports. Patient Symptoms
• C/S - Cesarean section or culture and sensitivity, depending on context. Cesarean Delivery / Culture and Sensitivity
• C1, C2... - The first, second, etc., cervical vertebrae in the spinal column. Cervical Spine
• CAA - Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy, a condition where amyloid deposits form in the blood vessels of the brain. Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
• CABG - Coronary Artery Bypass Graft, a surgery that improves blood flow to the heart. Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
• CABP - Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia, a type of pneumonia contracted outside of hospital settings. Bacterial Pneumonia
• CAD - Coronary Artery Disease, a common heart condition caused by narrowed arteries. Coronary Artery Disease
• CA - Cancer or Carcinoma, referring to diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Carcinoma
• CBD - Common Bile Duct, the duct that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum. Common Bile Duct
• CBE - Clinical Breast Examination, a physical examination of the breast performed by a healthcare provider to check for lumps or other changes. Clinical Breast Exam
• CBF - Cerebral Blood Flow, the blood supply to the brain in a given period. Cerebral Blood Flow
• CCA - Common Carotid Artery, a large artery that supplies the head and neck with oxygenated blood. Common Carotid Artery
• CCB - Calcium Channel Blocker, a type of medication that lowers blood pressure. Calcium Channel Blocker
• CC - Chief Complaint, the primary symptom that a patient states as the reason for seeking medical care. Chief Complaint
• CDAD - Clostridium Difficile Associated Disease, a bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea. Clostridium Difficile Infection
• CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the national public health institute in the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• CD - Cluster of Differentiation, a protocol used for the identification and investigation of cell surface molecules providing targets for immunophenotyping of cells. Cluster of Differentiation
• CEA - Carcinoembryonic Antigen, a protein that may be elevated in the blood of a person who has certain cancers. Carcinoembryonic Antigen
• CFA - Common Femoral Artery, the large artery in the thigh that supplies blood to the lower limbs. Common Femoral Artery
• CF - Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects mostly the lungs but also the pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestine. Cystic Fibrosis
• CINV - Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting, a common side effect of cancer treatment. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
• CIN - Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia, a term for the growth of abnormal cells on the surface of the cervix. Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
• CIS - Carcinoma In Situ, a group of abnormal cells that remain in the place where they first formed and have not spread. Carcinoma In Situ
• CJD - Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, a rare, degenerative, invariably fatal brain disorder. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
• CKD - Chronic Kidney Disease, a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. Chronic Kidney Disease
• CKMB - Creatine Kinase-MB, an isoenzyme of creatine kinase that is primarily found in heart muscle cells. Creatine Kinase-MB
• CK - Creatine Kinase, an enzyme found in the heart, brain, skeletal muscle, and other tissues that increases in the blood after muscle injury or heart attack. Creatine Kinase
• CLL - Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, a type of cancer that starts from white blood cells in the bone marrow. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
• CML - Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, a type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
• CMV - Cytomegalovirus, a common virus that can infect anyone and is usually harmless but may cause serious health problems in immunocompromised individuals. Cytomegalovirus
• CNS - Central Nervous System, the part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Central Nervous System
• CO2 - Carbon Dioxide, a colorless gas produced by burning carbon and organic compounds and by respiration. It is naturally present in air and is absorbed by plants in photosynthesis. Carbon Dioxide
• COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
• COVID - Coronavirus Disease, referring to the disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which can lead to COVID-19. COVID-19
• CO - Carbon Monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• CPAP - Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, a treatment that uses mild air pressure to keep the airways open. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
• CPCR - Cardiopulmonary Cerebral Resuscitation, an advanced form of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
• CPD - Cephalopelvic Disproportion, a condition where the baby's head or body is too large to fit through the mother's pelvis. Cephalopelvic Disproportion
• CPE - Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae, a family of germs that are difficult to treat because they have high levels of resistance to antibiotics. Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae
• CPK - Creatine Phosphokinase, see Creatine Kinase.
• CPR - Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, an emergency procedure that combines chest compressions often with artificial ventilation in an effort to manually preserve intact brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
• CPT - Current Procedural Terminology, a medical code set that is used to report medical, surgical, and diagnostic procedures and services to entities such as physicians, health insurance companies and accreditation organizations. Current Procedural Terminology
• CP - Cerebral Palsy, a group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. Cerebral Palsy
• CRC - Colorectal Cancer, a common cancer affecting the colon and rectum. Colorectal Cancer
• CRC - Colorectal Cancer: A common form of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum.
• CRD - Chronic Respiratory Disease, any long-term respiratory disorder. Chronic Respiratory Disease
• CRD - Chronic Respiratory Disease: Long-term diseases of the lungs, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.
• CREST syndrome - A form of scleroderma characterized by Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, Esophageal dysfunction, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasia.
• CRE - Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae, germs that are highly resistant to antibiotics. Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae
• CRE - Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae: A family of bacteria that are resistant to carbapenem antibiotics and are known to cause infections in healthcare settings.
• CRF - Chronic Renal Failure, now more commonly referred to as chronic kidney disease (CKD), a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. Chronic Kidney Disease
• CRF - Chronic Renal Failure: A gradual loss of kidney function over time, also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• CRH - Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone, a hormone that stimulates the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland. Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone
• CRH - Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone: A hormone involved in the stress response, regulating the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands.
• CRISPR - Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, a family of DNA sequences found within the genomes of prokaryotic organisms such as bacteria and archaea. These sequences are derived from DNA fragments of bacteriophages that had previously infected the prokaryote and are used to detect and destroy DNA from similar bacteriophages during subsequent infections. Hence these sequences play a key role in the antiv
• CRISPR - CRISPR-Cas9: A technology used for editing genomes, allowing researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function.
• CRI - Chronic Renal Insufficiency, a condition where the kidneys are less able to filter and clean the blood. Chronic Kidney Disease
• CRI - Chronic Renal Insufficiency: Another term for chronic kidney disease, where the kidneys are less able to filter waste and fluids from the blood.
• CRL - Crown-Rump Length: A measurement of the length of a fetus from the top of its head to the bottom of its torso, used in ultrasound imaging.
• CRNA - Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist: A nurse who has specialized training in anesthesia administration.
• CRO - Clinical Research Organization: A service organization that provides support to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries in the form of research services outsourced on a contract basis.
• CRPC - Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A form of prostate cancer that continues to grow even when testosterone levels are reduced to very low levels.
• CRPS - Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A chronic pain condition typically affecting a limb after injury or surgery.
• CRP - C-Reactive Protein: A substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation, measured in the blood as a marker of inflammation or infection.
• CRRT - Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy: A type of dialysis used to treat critically ill, hospitalized patients in the intensive care unit who develop acute kidney injury.
• CRSD - Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome: See Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
• CRS - Cytokine Release Syndrome: A systemic inflammatory response caused by the release of large quantities of cytokines from immune cells targeted by immunotherapy drugs.
• CRT - Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: A treatment for heart failure that uses a pacemaker to improve the timing of the heart's contractions.
• CRTx - Chemoradiotherapy: A combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to treat cancer, typically used when each modality alone would not be as effective.
• CR - Complete Response, in medicine, a term used to indicate the disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Also, Controlled Release, pertaining to controlled-release drug formulations. Complete Response / Controlled Release Formulation
• CR - Complete Response: In oncology, the disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured.
• CSA - Central Sleep Apnea: A disorder where breathing stops and starts during sleep because of lack of respiratory effort.
• CSF - Cerebrospinal Fluid: A clear fluid found in the brain and spinal cord, which acts as a cushion and provides nutrients.
• CSME - Clinically Significant Macular Edema: Swelling in the macula, an area in the retina of the eye, which can affect vision.
• CSOM - Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media: A persistent ear infection that results in tearing or perforation of the eardrum.
• CSPC - Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer that responds to treatments that lower testosterone levels.
• CSR - Cardiovascular Systemic Risk: The risk of adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or stroke.
• CST - Contraction Stress Test: A prenatal test to predict fetal distress and placental insufficiency by monitoring fetal heart rate during uterine contractions.
• CSU - Catheter Specimen of Urine: Urine sample collected directly from a urinary catheter for testing and diagnosis.
• CS - Cesarean Section: A surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.
• CT c/a/p - Computed Tomography of Chest/Abdomen/Pelvis: A CT scan that looks at the chest, abdomen, and pelvis to detect abnormalities or diseases.
• CTAB - Clear to Auscultation Bilaterally: A term used to describe normal-sounding lungs when examined with a stethoscope.
• CTAP - Computed Tomography During Arterial Portography: A type of CT scan used to visualize blood flow in the liver.
• CTA - Computed Tomography Angiography: A medical test that combines a CT scan with an injection of a special dye to visualize blood vessels.
• CTCAE - Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events: A standard classification and severity grading scale for adverse effects of drugs used in cancer therapy.
• CTD - Connective Tissue Disease: A group of disorders involving the protein-rich tissue that supports organs and other parts of the body.
• CTEPH - Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A form of pulmonary hypertension caused by old, organized blood clots in the lungs.
• CTE - Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: A brain condition associated with repeated blows to the head and concussions.
• CTO - Chronic Total Occlusion: A complete blockage of a coronary artery for 3 months or longer.
• CTPA - Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography: A medical scan that combines a CT scan and angiography to visualize the pulmonary arteries.
• CTPE - Computed Tomography Pulmonary Embolism: A CT scan specifically designed to detect pulmonary embolism.
• CTP - Child-Turcotte-Pugh score: A scoring system used to assess the prognosis of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis.
• CTR - Cardiothoracic Ratio: A measurement on a chest X-ray that can indicate heart enlargement.
• CTS - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A medical condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist at the carpal tunnel.
• CTU - Computed Tomography Urogram: A CT scan to examine the urinary tract.
• CTX - Chemotherapy: Treatment of disease, usually cancer, using chemical substances or drugs.
• CTZ - Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone: An area of the medulla in the brain that is involved in the sensation of nausea and the action of vomiting.
• CT - Computed Tomography: A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images of the body.
• CTx - Chemotherapy: Treatment of disease, usually cancer, using chemical substances or drugs.
• CUC - Chronic Ulcerative Colitis: A chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the colon and rectum.
• CVAD - Central Venous Access Device: A catheter placed into a large vein for the purpose of administering medication or fluids, obtaining blood tests, and directly obtaining cardiovascular measurements.
• CVAT - Costovertebral Angle Tenderness: Tenderness elicited by tapping on the back where the ribs meet the spine, which may indicate kidney infection.
• CVA - Cerebrovascular Accident: Also known as a stroke, a sudden event that leads to loss of brain function due to a disturbance in the blood supply to the brain.
• CVC - Central Venous Catheter: A tube that is inserted into a patient's large vein in the neck, chest, or groin to administer medication or fluids, obtain blood tests, and directly obtain cardiovascular measurements.
• CVD - Cardiovascular Disease: A general term for conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels.
• CVID - Common Variable Immunodeficiency: An immune system disorder characterized by low levels of several of the proteins (antibodies) that help fight infections.
• CVI - Chronic Venous Insufficiency: A condition that occurs when the venous wall and/or valves in the leg veins are not working effectively, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart from the legs.
• CVL - Central Venous Line: A catheter inserted into a large vein in the neck, chest, or groin, used for medical treatment and to measure central venous pressure.
• CVP - Central Venous Pressure, a measurement of the pressure in the central venous system, which reflects the amount of blood returning to the heart and the ability of the heart to pump the blood into the arterial system. Central Venous Pressure
• CVS - Cardiovascular System, the system that circulates blood throughout the body, consisting of the heart, blood, and blood vessels. Cardiovascular System
• CVT - Cerebral Venous Thrombosis, a blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain. Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
• CVVH - Continuous Veno-Venous Hemofiltration, a type of continuous renal replacement therapy used to treat acute kidney injury. Continuous Veno-Venous Hemofiltration
• CV - Cardiovascular: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
• CWP - Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis, also known as "black lung disease," a condition caused by long-term exposure to coal dust. Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis
• CXR - Chest X-Ray, a radiograph of the thorax used to diagnose conditions affecting the chest, its contents, and nearby structures. Chest X-Ray
• CaOx - Calcium Oxalate, a chemical compound that forms envelope-shaped crystals, known in plants as raphides. A major constituent of human kidney stones. Calcium Oxalate
• Ca - Calcium, a chemical element that is essential for living organisms, including humans. Calcium
• Caps - Capsules, a dosage form for medicine in the form of an encapsulated powder or liquid. Capsules
• Cath - Catheter, a tube that can be inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel to allow drainage, administration of fluids or gases, or access by surgical instruments. Catheter
• ChE - Cholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine and other choline esters that function as neurotransmitters. Cholinesterase
• Chol - Cholesterol, a type of lipid molecule that is biosynthesized by all animal cells because it is an essential structural component of animal cell membranes. Cholesterol
• Circ - Circumcision or Circulation, depending on context. Circumcision / Circulatory System
• Cl - Chloride, an electrolyte that helps keep the amount of fluid inside and outside of your cells in balance. Chloride
• CoNS - Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci, a group of bacteria that are part of the skin flora and are usually harmless but can cause infection in certain conditions. Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci
• Comp - Compounded or complication, depending on context. Compounding / Complication
• Conj - Conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. Conjunctiva
• CrCl - Creatinine Clearance, a measure of the rate at which creatinine is cleared from the blood by the kidneys. Creatinine Clearance
• CrGN - Crescentic Glomerulonephritis, a form of glomerulonephritis characterized by crescent formation in the glomeruli. Crescentic Glomerulonephritis
• Cr - Creatinine, a breakdown product of creatine phosphate in muscle, and is usually produced at a fairly constant rate by the body. Creatinine
• Creat - Creatinine, see above.
• Crike - Cricothyrotomy, an emergency procedure to provide airway access through the neck. Cricothyrotomy
• Crit - Hematocrit, the ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood. Hematocrit
• CsA - Cyclosporine A, an immunosuppressant drug widely used in post-allogeneic organ transplant to reduce the activity of the patient's immune system. Cyclosporine
• Cx - Cervix or cervical, pertaining to the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Cervix
• c/b - Complicated by, indicating that an existing condition is accompanied by additional complications.
• c/w - Consistent with, indicating that the findings are in agreement with a particular diagnosis.
• cAMP - Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate, a second messenger important in many biological processes. Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate
• cGMP - Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate, a cyclic nucleotide derived from guanosine triphosphate (GTP). Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate
• cc - Cubic centimeters, a unit of volume that is equal to a milliliter and used in medical dosing. Cubic Centimeter
• c̅ - With, from the Latin word cum, used in medical prescriptions.