Diseases of the Digestive System : International Nomenclature of Diseases

This book provides a concise, authoritative dictionary of diseases of the digestive system, using a single recommended name and precise definition for each of some 600 clinical entities.

The nomenclature, which was developed in consultation with a large number of experts, is intended to facilitate medical reporting and literature searchers, particularly in those cases where a single disease entity is known by a large number of different terms. The nomenclature features ten chapters arranged according to anatomical and morphological features, moving from diseases of the oesophagus to diseases of the peritoneum, omentum, mesentery, and abdominal wall.

Gastric and duodenal ulcers and complications of gastric surgery are covered in a separate chapter, as are tumours and tumour-like lesions. Each disease or syndrome for which a name is recommended is defined, as unambiguously, and yet as briefly, as possible.

Names that are in almost universal usage are retained, even if they do not fully meet the criteria of being specific, unambiguous, and as self-descriptive and simple as possible.

A complete list of synonyms is also included in order to facilitate literature searches and information retrieval. Emphasis is given to etiology and pathology, although clinical manifestations are also described.

Wherever possible, recommended names are based on cause or pathogenesis. A 40-page index, which features all recommended names and synonyms covered in the nomenclature, makes it convenient for users to learn whether a particular term is recommended or to relate an unfamiliar term to the intended disease or syndrome.