In medical terminology, CA can stand for several things. It's crucial to note that the meaning depends heavily on context. The ambiguity necessitates careful consideration of the surrounding information to avoid misinterpretation.
Common Meanings of CA in Medical Contexts:
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Cancer/Carcinoma (CA, ca): This is perhaps the most frequent meaning of CA in medical records and literature. It refers to the presence of malignant tumors, broadly categorized as cancers. For example, a diagnosis might read "CA of the lung," indicating lung cancer. Source: Common Medical Abbreviations - ASHA
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Cardiac Arrest (CA): Another significant meaning of CA is cardiac arrest, a sudden cessation of heart function. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical intervention. Source: Common Medical Abbreviations - ASHA
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Other Less Common Meanings: While less frequent, CA might also represent other terms such as chronological age, cerebrovascular amyloid, or cephalic artery, depending on the specific medical field and context. Source: Homework.Study.com
Important Note: The ambiguity of CA highlights the importance of precise medical documentation. Using unambiguous terms instead of abbreviations whenever possible minimizes confusion and ensures clear communication among healthcare professionals.
