In medical terms, what does 'r/o' typically mean?

In medical terminology, 'r/o' stands for "rule out." This phrase is commonly used by healthcare professionals to indicate that a particular diagnosis or condition is being considered but has not yet been confirmed. For example, if a physician says they want to "r/o pneumonia," it means they want to eliminate the possibility of pneumonia as a diagnosis through further investigation or testing. This term is an essential part of clinical practice, as it helps guide the diagnostic process by focusing on what needs to be excluded to reach an accurate conclusion about the patient's condition. Understanding this terminology is crucial for effective communication in medical documentation and patient care.