Doctors’ Specialisation Glossary

Specialisations Glossary

Cardiology & Cardiac Care

Cardiologist: A cardiologist diagnoses and treats heart diseases, heart failure, and irregular heart rhythms. They perform tests such as ECG and stress tests and prescribe medication to manage heart health.

Echo-Cardiologist: An echocardiologist specialises in heart imaging through echocardiography to assess the structure and function of the heart. They provide detailed reports that assist in diagnosing and treating cardiac conditions.

Interventional Cardiologist: An interventional cardiologist uses minimally invasive techniques to treat heart artery blockages. They perform procedures like angioplasty and stent placement to restore proper blood flow.

Dermatology & Cosmetology

Dermatologist / Skin Specialist: A dermatologist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails. They manage issues such as acne, eczema, infections, psoriasis, and skin cancers through medication and minor procedures.

Dermato-Venereologist: A dermato-venereologist specialises in treating skin diseases and sexually transmitted infections that affect the skin. They combine dermatology with venereology to manage infections and provide related counselling.

Endocrinology & Diabetes

Endocrinologist: An endocrinologist diagnoses and treats disorders of the thyroid, pituitary, adrenal glands, and other hormone-related systems. They manage hormone balance and coordinate long-term endocrine care.

Diabetologist: A diabetologist specialises in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diabetes. They create glucose control plans, adjust insulin regimens, and monitor for diabetes-related complications.

ENT (Otorhinolaryngology)

Adolescent Medicine Specialist: An adolescent medicine specialist addresses health concerns in individuals aged 10 to 19 years. They focus on growth, hormonal changes, mental health, and behavioural issues during adolescence.

Nuclear Medicine Specialist: A nuclear medicine specialist uses small amounts of radioactive substances for diagnosis and treatment. They often work on thyroid disorders, cancer staging, and targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy.

Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT Specialist): An otorhinolaryngologist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat. They manage both medical and surgical care for issues such as infections, sinus disease, and voice problems.

Gastroenterology & Hepatology

Gastroenterologist: A gastroenterologist treats disorders of the stomach, intestines and pancreas. They perform endoscopies and manage conditions like ulcers, IBS and inflammatory bowel disease.

Hepatologist: A hepatologist specialises in liver, gallbladder and bile duct diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. They guide you on tests, antiviral treatments and liver transplant referrals.

General & Internal Medicine

Ayurvedic General Physician: An Ayurvedic general physician uses herbal medicines, diet and lifestyle changes for prevention and treatment. You can consult them for holistic and traditional care.

Cardiac Medicine and Internal Medicine: These specialists manage the medical aspects of heart disease alongside other complex health problems. You see them for non-surgical cardiac care and long-term follow-up.

Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine Specialist: This specialist offers full-spectrum care for all ages and handles urgent health issues. They are your go-to for quick assessments and ongoing primary treatment.

General Medicine: General medicine doctors treat a broad range of adult illnesses without surgery. They diagnose, manage chronic diseases and refer to other specialists when needed.

General Physician: A general physician handles everyday health concerns, orders tests and refers to specialists. They are often your first point of contact for medical care.

General Practitioner: A GP provides primary care for people of all ages and common illnesses. You visit them for check-ups, prescriptions and preventive health advice.

Homeopathic Physician: A homoeopathic physician prescribes remedies based on individual symptoms and holistic assessment. They offer an alternative approach to conventional medicine.

Hospice and Palliative Medicine: These specialists focus on relieving pain and improving quality of life during serious illness. They support patients and families through physical and emotional care.

Internal Medicine Specialist: Internal medicine specialists handle complex and multi-system diseases in adults. You see them for complex diagnoses and long-term treatment plans.

Occupational Medicine Specialist: This specialist addresses work-related health issues and conducts fitness-for-duty assessments. They also help prevent and manage workplace illnesses.

Pain Medicine Specialist: A pain medicine specialist treats acute and chronic pain with drugs, injections and therapy plans. They help you manage pain to improve your daily functioning.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: These doctors help restore movement and function after illness or injury. They use targeted therapy, exercises and assistive devices for recovery.

Tropical Medicine Specialist: A tropical medicine specialist treats diseases common in warm climates, such as malaria, dengue and parasitic infections. They also advise on prevention.

Unani General Practitioner: A Unani GP uses the Unani system’s herbal and regimen-based treatments. They provide care for those seeking traditional, complementary options.

Vascular Medicine Specialist: Vascular medicine specialists treat diseases of arteries and veins outside the heart and brain. They manage circulation problems and coordinate procedures if needed.

Neurology & Neurosciences

Clinical Neurophysiologist: A clinical neurophysiologist performs tests like EEG and EMG to study nerve and muscle function. They provide precise measurements that help confirm or rule out neurological conditions.

Interventional Neuroradiologist: An interventional neuroradiologist treats brain and spine blood vessel disorders using image-guided techniques. They perform minimally invasive procedures such as coiling and thrombectomy.

Neuro-Medicine Specialist: A neuro-medicine specialist manages neurological disorders without surgery. They use medication and rehabilitation plans for conditions like seizures, neuropathies, and movement disorders.

Neurologist: A neurologist diagnoses and treats diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They manage conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.

Neuropsychiatrist: A neuropsychiatrist treats psychiatric disorders linked to brain or nerve problems. They combine neurological expertise with mental health care.

Neuroradiologist: A neuroradiologist interprets MRI and CT scans focused on the brain and spine. Their reports guide diagnosis and surgical or medical planning.

Oncology & Haematology

Medical Oncologist: A medical oncologist treats cancer using chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They coordinate overall cancer care and long-term follow-up.

Radio Oncologist: A radio oncologist plans and delivers radiation treatment for cancer. They aim to control tumours or relieve symptoms through precise radiotherapy.

Ophthalmology

Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats eye diseases with medication or surgery. They perform specialist procedures like cataract and glaucoma operations.

Optometrist: An optometrist examines vision and eye health. They prescribe glasses, contact lenses, and refer patients for further treatment when needed.

Gynaecology & Obstetrics

Gynaecologist: A gynaecologist treats conditions affecting the female reproductive system. They manage menstrual disorders, infections, and perform non-pregnancy surgeries.

Obstetrician: An obstetrician cares for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery. They monitor both mother and baby to ensure safe delivery and postpartum health.

Paediatric Specialists

Paediatric Allergologist: A paediatric allergologist diagnoses and treats allergies and asthma in children. They guide avoidance strategies and may recommend immunotherapy.

Paediatric Cardiologist: A paediatric cardiologist treats heart conditions in infants and children. They perform heart scans and manage ongoing cardiac care.

Paediatric Endocrinologist: A paediatric endocrinologist manages growth, puberty, and hormone disorders in children. They treat conditions such as diabetes and monitor development.

Paediatric Gastroenterologist / Hepatologist: These specialists treat digestive and liver diseases in children. They perform endoscopies and manage chronic gastrointestinal problems.

Paediatric Haematologist and Oncologist: This specialist treats childhood blood disorders and cancers. They coordinate chemotherapy and supportive care for young patients.

Paediatric Infectious Disease Specialist: A paediatric infectious disease specialist manages severe or rare infections in children. They also advise on vaccination and prevention.

Paediatric Nephrologist: A paediatric nephrologist treats kidney diseases in children. They manage dialysis and transplant options when required.

Paediatric Respiratory Medicine Specialist: This specialist manages lung conditions in children, including severe asthma and cystic fibrosis. They conduct breathing tests and plan inhalation therapies.

Paediatric Rheumatologist: A paediatric rheumatologist treats autoimmune and inflammatory joint disorders in children. They use medication and rehabilitation to manage symptoms.

Paediatrician: A paediatrician provides general medical care for children from birth to adolescence. They handle check-ups, vaccinations, and common illnesses.

Pulmonology

Interventional Pulmonologist: An interventional pulmonologist uses bronchoscopic and other minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat airway or pleural disease. They provide specialised lung procedures when needed.

Pulmonologist: A pulmonologist diagnoses and manages respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and lung infections. They perform lung function tests and offer long-term care plans.

Respiratory Medicine: Respiratory medicine covers the care of breathing disorders. It often involves pulmonologists working with allied health teams for complete lung health support.

Radiology & Imaging

Interventional Radiologist: Interventional radiologists use imaging guidance to perform minimally invasive procedures such as biopsies and embolisations. You benefit from smaller incisions and faster recovery.

Radio Diagnosis Specialist: A radio diagnosis specialist interprets diagnostic imaging, including CT and MRI, to identify disease. You will receive detailed reports guiding treatment.

Radiologist: Radiologists oversee imaging interpretation and advise clinicians on appropriate scans and follow-up imaging. You will depend on their reports for diagnostic decisions.

Radiotherapist: A radiotherapist specialises in planning and delivering therapeutic radiation for cancer and selected benign conditions. You will consult them when radiotherapy is part of your care.

Rehabilitation & Critical Care

Critical Care Specialist: A critical care specialist (intensivist) treats life-threatening conditions in intensive care units, managing ventilation, monitoring, and complex interventions. They lead the ICU team in emergencies.

Rehabilitation Medicine Specialist: A rehabilitation medicine specialist develops recovery programmes after injury, stroke, or serious illness. They help restore independence and physical capability.

Physiotherapist: A physiotherapist provides movement-based therapies, exercise plans, and manual techniques to improve mobility and reduce pain. They work with you to achieve functional recovery.

Anaesthesiology

Anaesthesiologist: An anaesthesiologist administers anaesthesia, monitors vital signs during surgery, and manages post-operative pain. They prepare and assess you before operations.

Cardiac Anaesthesiologist: A cardiac anaesthesiologist specialises in anaesthesia for heart surgery, overseeing advanced monitoring and complex recovery needs. They guide you through the pre-operative process.

Surgical Specialists

Bariatric Surgeon: Performs weight-loss surgeries such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy to treat severe obesity. You will be assessed for eligibility and supported through follow-up care.

Bone Marrow Surgeon: Carries out procedures for marrow access and donor harvesting in preparation for bone marrow transplantation. You will meet them during transplant planning and surgery.

Breast Surgeon: Operates on benign and malignant breast conditions, including biopsies and tumour removal. You will be referred for a lump assessment and surgical treatment.

Cardiac Surgeon: Performs open-heart operations such as bypasses and valve repairs. You will consult them for the surgical correction of significant heart disease.

Cardiothoracic Surgeon / Cardiothoracic and Intervascular Surgeon: Operates on the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, often handling complex chest cases. You will see them for combined cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgery.

Dental Surgeon: Performs oral surgeries including extractions, implants, and jaw corrections. You will consult them for surgical dental care.

Dermatologist and Cosmetologist Surgeon: Performs skin surgeries and cosmetic procedures for medical or aesthetic concerns. You will be offered both therapeutic and cosmetic surgical options.

E.N.T. Specialist / E.N.T. Surgeon: Treats ear, nose, and throat conditions surgically, such as sinus and tonsil operations. You will be referred for ENT-related procedures.

Endoscopic Surgeon: Uses camera-assisted techniques to perform minimally invasive internal surgeries. You will benefit from reduced incision size and faster recovery.

Eye Surgeon / Ophthalmic Surgeon: Performs cataract, glaucoma, and retinal operations to restore or preserve vision. You will receive specialised surgical eye care.

Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist / Gastro Surgeon: Operates on stomach, intestinal, and liver conditions requiring surgery. You will meet them for the operative management of digestive diseases.

General Surgeon: Handles a wide range of abdominal and soft-tissue surgeries, both emergency and planned. You will be referred for diverse surgical needs.

Glaucoma Surgeon: Performs operations to reduce eye pressure and preserve sight in glaucoma patients. You will be counselled on treatment options and expected outcomes.

Head and Neck Surgeon: Treats tumours and complex conditions of the head and neck, often with reconstructive surgery. You will receive both functional and cancer-related surgical care.

Kidney Surgeon: Performs kidney removal and other renal surgeries, often with transplant teams. You will be evaluated for surgical options and recovery planning.

Laparoscopic Surgeon: Uses keyhole techniques for abdominal surgeries, allowing for smaller scars and quicker healing. You will benefit from minimally invasive approaches where appropriate.

Maxillofacial and Microvascular Surgeon: Repairs facial trauma, performs jaw reconstruction, and manages complex tissue transfers. You will receive specialised reconstructive surgical care.

Nephro Surgeon: Specialises in kidney surgery for stones, tumours, and other renal issues. You will be guided through the procedure and postoperative care.

Neuro Surgeon: Performs brain and spinal surgeries for tumours, injuries, and degenerative conditions. You will be prepared for high-precision neurosurgical management.

Onco Surgeon: Removes tumours and performs cancer-related operations as part of oncology care. You will undergo surgical staging and tumour removal where needed.

Orthopaedic Surgeon: Treats bone, joint, and muscle injuries with surgical repair or replacement. You will see them for restoring movement and function.

Paediatric Surgeon: Performs operations for infants and children, tailored to their growth and development. You will receive child-specific surgical planning and care.

Urologist / Urosurgeon: Surgically treats urinary tract and male reproductive system disorders, including stones and prostate disease. You will be assessed for the most suitable surgical approach.

Vascular Surgeon: Repairs blood vessels and treats aneurysms or circulation problems surgically or via endovascular methods. You will be offered the most suitable vessel repair technique.

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon: Performs delicate retinal and vitreous surgeries for conditions like detachments and diabetic eye disease. You will be scheduled for precise ocular microsurgery.

Other Specialities

Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist treats severe mental health disorders and manages medication alongside psychotherapy. You will work with them for comprehensive mental healthcare.

Rheumatologist: A rheumatologist treats autoimmune and inflammatory joint and muscle disorders, guiding long-term immunomodulatory therapy. You will receive tailored management for systemic and joint diseases.

Infectious Disease Specialist: These specialists handle complex infections, resistant pathogens and outbreak control. You may be referred for hard-to-treat or unusual infections.

Sports Medicine Specialist: A sports medicine doctor treats sports injuries and designs rehabilitation for active individuals. You will receive injury prevention strategies and safe return-to-play plans.

Allergologist / Immunotherapist: An allergologist diagnoses allergies and may offer immunotherapy to reduce sensitivity. You will undergo testing and receive targeted treatment.

Clinical Biochemist: Clinical biochemists analyse lab tests and advise on biochemical markers for diagnosis and monitoring. Their input shapes many treatment decisions.

Geriatrician: A geriatric specialist manages the complex care needs of older adults, addressing frailty and chronic illness. You will receive support to maintain function and independence.

Haematologist: A haematologist diagnoses and treats blood disorders such as anaemia, clotting problems and blood cancers. You may be managed medically or with transfusions.

IHBT Specialist: Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion specialists oversee blood bank services and transfusion safety. You will depend on them for compatible and safe blood therapy.

Microbiologist: A microbiologist diagnoses infections through laboratory testing and guides antimicrobial therapy. They support clinicians in pathogen identification and control.

Leprologist: A leprologist diagnoses and treats leprosy, managing complications and disability care. You will receive long-term follow-up and rehabilitation.

Pathologist / Histopathologist: Pathologists examine tissues and cells to confirm disease, including cancer. You will receive detailed histopathology reports after biopsies.

Clinical Pharmacologist: Clinical pharmacologists advise on safe and effective drug use, especially in complex cases or research. They help optimise medication regimens.

Sonologist: A sonologist performs and interprets ultrasound scans for pregnancy, abdominal and musculoskeletal issues. You will see them for imaging-based diagnosis.

Endodontist: An endodontist treats root canal disease and pulp problems using specialised techniques. You will be referred for advanced dental care.

Orthodontist: An orthodontist corrects misaligned teeth and jaws with braces or appliances. You will be treated for both functional and aesthetic improvements.

Paedodontist: A paedodontist offers dental care for children, addressing cavities, developmental and behavioural needs. You will bring children for age-appropriate oral care.

Periodontist / Implantologist: Periodontists treat gum disease and perform dental implants. You will receive surgical and maintenance care for healthy gums and tooth replacement.

Prosthodontist: A prosthodontist restores missing teeth and oral function with crowns, bridges or dentures. You will be fitted for functional and aesthetic rehabilitation.

Cosmetic Surgeon: A cosmetic surgeon performs procedures to alter or enhance appearance. You will be counselled on options and expected outcomes.

Plastic / Reconstructive Surgeon: These surgeons repair defects from trauma, cancer or birth conditions, restoring both appearance and function. You will be offered tailored reconstructive solutions.

Conclusion:

Consulting the right specialist significantly improves the accuracy and timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Use this Doctors’ Specialisation Glossary: to identify which clinician you should approach for particular symptoms, tests or procedures. If you are unsure, your general practitioner or family medicine doctor can guide referrals and next steps.