This is a glossary of clinical abbreviations commonly used in patient records. Each practice and individual is free to have their own system of abbreviations which may be quite different from those listed here, and in the list below many abbreviations have more than one possible interpretation. Any abbreviation needs to be interpreted strictly in context, and while all attempts are made to ensure the accuracy of this glossary, neither the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons nor the site editor can accept any responsibility for any errors.

Practitioners may find this list useful when attempting to interpret clinical notes from unfamiliar colleagues such as locums and when cases are referred. Foreign graduates working in the UK may find it particularly useful and for this reasons terms are included that may seem extremely obvious.

Any suggestions for inclusion in this list would be very welcome (click here to email your suggestions) but the site editor's decision on what will or will not be included is final.