A guide to understanding X-ray, CT, MRI, and Ultrasound terminology.
When you receive a radiology report, the findings section is often dense with technical jargon and shorthand. Terms like "CT w/o contrast" or "MRI s/p surgery" describe not just what the radiologist saw, but exactly how the imaging was performed.
Radiology abbreviations allow specialists to document anatomical findings with extreme precision. Understanding these common acronyms helps patients better navigate their diagnostic journey and prepare for follow-up consultations.
Common Imaging & Modality Codes
| Abbreviation | Full Term | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CXR | Chest X-Ray | Standard imaging of the heart, lungs, and ribs. |
| CT / CAT | Computed Tomography | Cross-sectional X-ray images (slices) of the body. |
| MRI | Mag. Resonance Imaging | Uses magnetic fields to create detailed soft tissue images. |
| US | Ultrasound | Uses high-frequency sound waves to view organs. |
| PET | Positron Emission Tomography | Shows how tissues and organs are functioning. |
| MRA | Mag. Resonance Angiography | A specialized MRI that focuses on blood vessels. |
| KUB | Kidney, Ureters, Bladder | A specific abdominal X-ray focusing on the urinary tract. |
i Imaging Modifiers & Procedural Shorthand
You may see these additional codes attached to your scan order:
- w/ and w/o Contrast: "With" or "Without" contrast dye. Contrast helps highlight blood vessels and certain tissues for clearer diagnostic detail.
- IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram): An X-ray exam that uses an injection of contrast material to evaluate your kidneys and ureters.
- s/p (Status Post): Used in reports to indicate "after." For example, "s/p surgery" means the scan was taken after a surgical procedure.
Radiology FAQ
Q: What is the difference between "AP" and "Lateral" on my X-ray report?
A: These refer to the view angle. AP (Anteroposterior) means the image was taken from front-to-back. Lateral means it was taken from the side.
Q: What does "Incidental Finding" mean?
A: This refers to something the radiologist discovered that was not the original reason for the scan. Many incidental findings are harmless "clinical noise," but some may require follow-up.
Q: Does a "Negative" result mean something is wrong?
A: In radiology, Negative is usually good news! It means the radiologist did not find the abnormality or condition they were looking for.
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