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Issac;
 
The abbreviation is Latin for "id est", or "that is".  It is most often used as a parenthetical expression to explain a reference, and the explanation is exhaustive.  If you were to write "The patient developed Keinbock's necrosis (i.e., avascular necrosis of the lunate) subsequent to a fall onto her outstretched hand.", the "i.e." means that the only thing Keinbock's necrosis means is an avascular necrosis of the lunate.
 
This is often confused with another Latin abbreviation, "e.g.".  This means "exempli gratia (for example).  This is also typically used as a parenthetical expression, but the explanation is not exhaustive, and provides examples for the reader.  "The patient demonstrated signs and symptoms of vestibular dysfunction (e.g., nausea, increased postural sway, and vertigo) following the stroke." means that nausea, increased postural sway, and vertigo are examples of signs and symptoms of vestibular dysfunction, but that there are other signs and symptoms as well.
 
Hope this helps.
 
Frank Underwood

	-----Original Message----- 
	From: - for physiotherapists in education and practice on behalf of Isaac & Susanne 
	Sent: Sat 1/24/2004 7:04 AM 
	To: [log in to unmask] 
	Cc: 
	Subject: i.e.
	
	

	Sometimes I come across the abbrivation "i.e." in literature. I guess it
	means "that is" plain english, but what does really stand for?
	
	Thanks,
	
	Isaac Neumann