Specialty2 min read

Gastroenterology

Detail level

A gastroenterologist specializes in digestive diseases and disorders.

The NIDDK dictionary defines a gastroenterologist as a doctor who specialises in diseases and disorders of the digestive system, and MedlinePlus describes them as specialising in digestive system disorders. On this site, the pages on pancreatitis and cirrhosis, and on the pancreas, the liver and the digestive system, are linked to it.

ABMS classifies gastroenterology as a subspecialty certificate within internal medicine. This page does not cover details of tests such as endoscopy.

In one minute¹²³

What is it?: A specialty in diseases of the digestive system.
Who is usually affected?: People with digestive, pancreatic or liver problems.
Acute or chronic?: Varies according to the condition.
Main symptoms: Depends on the condition (abdominal pain, nausea, jaundice…).
Red flags?: Not directly applicable; see the disease pages.
Preventable?: Depends on the condition.

What is it?

Gastroenterologist: "a doctor who specialises in diseases and disorders of the digestive system" (NIDDK).

Conditions it covers

The conditions linked to it on this site: pancreatitis and cirrhosis. The organs: the pancreas, the liver and the digestive system.

When to see one

Referral to the specialist is usually decided by the primary care provider according to the condition (MedlinePlus). ABMS regards gastroenterology as a subspecialty certificate within internal medicine.

Common questions

What is the difference between a gastroenterologist and a hepatologist?

The sources of this page do not distinguish between them, and we have placed the liver under this page according to the site's relationships. Ask your doctor which service suits your condition.²

Questions for your doctor

Do I need a referral to gastroenterology?
Which tests suit my condition?
Is my condition related to the liver or pancreas?

References

1
NIDDK. Gastroenterologist — Dictionary definition. www.niddk.nih.gov/Dictionary/G/gastroenterologist
Health agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-06
2
MedlinePlus. Types of health care providers. medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001933.htm
Health agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-06
3
American Board of Medical Specialties. Specialty and Subspecialty Certificates. www.abms.org/member-boards/specialty-subspecialty-certificates/
Educational & historical references · Accessed 2026-10-06

Review status: Edited content · Last updated: 2026-10-06

Change log

2026-10-06 — Page created.

Educational content only — no diagnosis, and no substitute for a clinician.

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