List of MeSH codes (C11)

List of MeSH codes (C11) refers to a comprehensive index of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) that are specifically categorized under the domain of diseases related to the eye and its adnexa. MeSH is a highly structured and controlled vocabulary used for indexing articles, for cataloging books and other materials, and for searching medical and scientific databases. It is created and maintained by the United States National Library of Medicine (NLM). The C11 category encompasses a wide range of conditions, disorders, and diseases affecting the eye, providing a systematic way to organize and access medical knowledge in ophthalmology.

Overview

The MeSH system categorizes information into a hierarchical structure, allowing for broad to specific retrieval of knowledge. The C11 code is designated for topics related to ophthalmology, including but not limited to, diseases of the cornea, retina, glaucoma, cataract, and ocular hypertension. This categorization aids researchers, clinicians, and students in finding relevant information efficiently.

Structure

The C11 category is further divided into subcategories, each representing a specific area within ophthalmology. These include, but are not limited to:

• C11.294 - Diseases of the Cornea
• C11.319 - Diabetic Retinopathy
• C11.328 - Disorders of Refraction and Accommodation
• C11.941 - Uveitis

Each subcategory is assigned a unique MeSH code, which is used to index and search for articles and materials in medical databases.

Importance

The List of MeSH codes (C11) is crucial for the organization of medical knowledge in the field of ophthalmology. It ensures consistency in the indexing and retrieval of information across various platforms and databases. By standardizing the terminology, MeSH codes facilitate efficient and precise searches, enabling healthcare professionals and researchers to stay informed about the latest developments in eye diseases and their treatments.

Application

In practical terms, when a researcher is looking for scientific articles on a specific eye condition, such as glaucoma, they can use the corresponding MeSH code (e.g., C11 for eye diseases, followed by the specific code for glaucoma) to filter and retrieve relevant articles from databases like PubMed. This targeted search capability significantly enhances the efficiency of literature reviews and research.

Conclusion

The List of MeSH codes (C11) is an essential tool in the field of medical research and healthcare, particularly within the specialty of ophthalmology. It facilitates the organized access to and retrieval of information, supporting the advancement of knowledge and treatment in eye care.