Gastroenterology and hepatology focus on the digestive system’s organs, including the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and intestines. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat diseases such as PUD, pancreatitis, gallstones, and cancer, while hepatologists specialize in liver disorders such as cirrhosis, hemochromatosis, and hepatitis. They also conduct research to find new ways to detect and treat gastrointestinal diseases.
The study of gastroenterology and hepatology are often interrelated. This is because both branches of medicine generally focus on the organs of the digestive system. The organs of the digestive system are the mouth, stomach, intestines, esophagus and anus. Also included are the pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. Disorders and diseases that occur in these parts of the body are usually managed by doctors with specialties in gastroenterology and hepatology.
Clinical hepatology generally deals with the liver, its functions and its diseases. Clinical gastroenterology usually involves all organs of digestion, including the liver. Doctors who specialize in gastroenterology and hepatology are called gastroenterologists. When treating their patients, these doctors usually rule out the patient’s symptoms and illnesses that run in the family, perform physical exams, and order diagnostic tests. These may include blood tests, abdominal ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan of the patient’s abdomen.
Some of the most common diseases seen in gastroenterology are peptic ulcer disease (PUD), pancreatitis, gallstones, and appendicitis. PUD usually presents with sores in the stomach lining, often leading to indigestion. Pancreatitis and appendicitis are inflammations that occur in the pancreas and appendix, respectively. Gallstones often develop when bile, the greenish-yellow substance secreted by the liver, crystallizes. Cancer can also grow anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach, colon, and liver.
Most liver disorders are generally grouped under hepatology. Examples of these diseases are liver cirrhosis, hemochromatosis and hepatitis. Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by infection with several types of hepatitis viruses, including hepatitis A virus and hepatitis C virus, among many others.
Hemochromatosis occurs due to the body’s inability to metabolize iron, leading to accumulation of iron in the liver and other organs. Frequent liver damage can lead to its scarring and hardening. Such liver damage is usually caused by exposure to infectious agents, harmful toxins, autoimmune diseases, and excessive alcohol use.
In addition to diagnosing and treating patients with gastrointestinal problems, gastroenterology and hepatology specialists also usually conduct research. Most of this research is directed towards finding new ways to detect gastrointestinal disease and prevent its development. These doctors are also looking for new and better drugs to be used for the treatment of gastroenterology and hepatology patients.
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