There are 53 medical specialties that start with the letter T. From Tachyarrythmia to Transposition of the Great Arteries. Medical specialties are fields within medicine that focus on specific functions, patient populations, or types of diseases. They have evolved to address the increasing complexity of healthcare, enabling practitioners to hone their skills and knowledge in particular areas. Specialists typically undergo extensive training that includes residency programs and sometimes additional fellowships, allowing them to provide advanced care and treatment options. The diversification into various specialties ensures that patients receive expert diagnosis and management of their medical conditions, thus enhancing the quality of care.

An interesting fact about medical specialties is that many of them have unique subspecialties that have developed around advancements in technology and research. For instance, within internal medicine, there are subspecialties like cardiology and gastroenterology that focus on specific organ systems or diseases, demonstrating a continuous evolution of medical practice to incorporate new knowledge and techniques.

Here’s what each of the columns in the table means:

Focus Area: This column indicates the primary domain or aspect of health care that the specialty addresses, such as cardiology focusing on heart diseases or pediatrics centering on children’s health.

Training Required: This column specifies the education and training commitments needed to practice within the specialty, typically involving medical school, residency, and possibly fellowships for further specialization.

Common Procedures: This column outlines the typical medical interventions or treatments that practitioners in the specialty perform regularly, such as surgeries, diagnostic tests, or therapeutic measures.

Description: This column provides a brief overview of the specialty, including its scope of practice, the types of conditions treated, and the patient population served, giving insight into the role of the medical specialty in overall healthcare.

Medical specialties That Start With T

Medical specialties focus area training required common procedures
Tachyarrythmia Cardiac electrophysiology Extensive training in cardiology, including specialization in cardiac electrophysiology Cardioversion, catheter ablation, pacemaker implantation
Tachycardia Cardiology Specialized training in cardiology, including diagnosis and treatment of abnormal heart rhythms Cardioversion, medication management, catheter ablation
Tachypnea Pulmonology Training in pulmonary medicine, including diagnosis and management of respiratory disorders Oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, medication management
Takayasu’s Arteritis Inflammatory disease affecting the aorta and its main branches Rheumatology Angiography, corticosteroid therapy
Talipes Equinovarus Orthopedics Specialized training in pediatric orthopedics, including diagnosis and treatment of congenital foot deformities Casting, bracing, surgical correction
Talorectomy Orthopedics Specialized training in foot and ankle surgery, including procedures to address deformities or injuries Surgical removal of the talus bone in the foot
Tarsorrhaphy Ophthalmology Specialized training in ophthalmic surgery, including procedures to address eyelid and corneal issues Surgical suturing of the eyelids, either partially or completely
Tarsus Resection Orthopedics Specialized training in foot and ankle surgery, including procedures to address deformities or injuries Surgical removal of a portion of the tarsal bones in the foot
Telangiectasia Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, including vascular disorders Laser therapy, sclerotherapy, topical medication
Temporal Arteritis Rheumatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders Corticosteroid therapy, temporal artery biopsy
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) Diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint and associated muscles Specialized training in dentistry, oral surgery, or physical therapy Joint manipulation, physical therapy, pain medication
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder Issues with the jaw joint, can cause pain and dysfunction Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Splint therapy, physical therapy, surgery
Tenosynovitis Orthopedics, Rheumatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including joint and tendon conditions Anti-inflammatory medication, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy
Tension Headache Neurology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of neurological disorders, including headaches Medication management, stress management, physical therapy
Tension Pneumothorax Accumulation of air in the pleural space, can be life-threatening Emergency Medicine, Thoracic Surgery Needle decompression, tube thoracostomy
Tension-Type Headache Most common type of headache, caused by muscle tension Neurology Over-the-counter pain medication, stress management
Testicular Cancer Oncology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers, including urological malignancies Orchiectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy
Tetanus Infectious Disease Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases, including vaccine-preventable illnesses Wound cleaning, tetanus immune globulin, tetanus vaccination
Tetralogy of Fallot Pediatric Cardiology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of congenital heart defects in children Surgical repair, palliative procedures, long-term management
Thalassemia Hematology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of blood disorders, including inherited anemias Blood transfusions, chelation therapy, stem cell transplantation
Theileriosis Tropical Medicine Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions Anti-parasitic medication, vector control, supportive care
Thermal Burn Plastic Surgery, Burn Care Specialized training in the management of burn injuries, including both surgical and non-surgical treatment Wound care, skin grafting, reconstructive surgery
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Cardiovascular Surgery Specialized training in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of aortic and other cardiovascular disorders Open surgical repair, endovascular repair, medication management
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Orthopedics, Neurology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal and neurological disorders affecting the thoracic outlet Physical therapy, medication management, surgical decompression
Thromboangiitis Obliterans Vascular Surgery Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases, including peripheral artery disorders Smoking cessation, vasodilator therapy, revascularization procedures
Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger’s Disease) Diagnosis and treatment of a rare condition that causes inflammation and obstruction of the blood vessels, primarily in the hands and feet Specialized training in vascular surgery or rheumatology Vasodilator medications, revascularization surgery, amputation
Thrombocytopenia Hematology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of blood disorders, including platelet abnormalities Medication management, platelet transfusions, treatment of underlying cause
Thromboembolism Hematology, Vascular Medicine Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of blood clotting disorders, including the management of thrombotic events Anticoagulation therapy, thrombolytic therapy, surgical embolectomy
Thrombophilia Hematology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of blood disorders, including inherited and acquired clotting disorders Anticoagulation therapy, genetic testing, treatment of underlying conditions
Thrombosis Hematology, Vascular Medicine Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of blood clotting disorders, including the management of thrombotic events Anticoagulation therapy, thrombolytic therapy, surgical thrombectomy
Thyroid Cancer Oncology, Endocrinology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders, including malignancies Thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine therapy, hormone replacement therapy
Thyroid Eye Disease Ophthalmology, Endocrinology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of thyroid-related eye disorders Corticosteroid therapy, orbital decompression surgery, management of diplopia
Thyroid Nodules Diagnosis and management of abnormal growths or lumps in the thyroid gland Specialized training in endocrinology or surgery Fine-needle aspiration biopsy, thyroidectomy
Thyroiditis Endocrinology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders, including inflammatory conditions Medication management, monitoring of thyroid function, treatment of underlying cause
Tic Disorder Neurology, Psychiatry Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of neurological and psychiatric conditions, including movement disorders Behavioral therapy, medication management, deep brain stimulation
Tinea Capitis Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including fungal infections Antifungal medications, topical treatments, sometimes oral treatments
Tinea Corporis Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including fungal infections Antifungal medications, topical treatments
Tinea Cruris Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including fungal infections Antifungal medications, topical treatments
Tinea Infections Diagnosis and treatment of fungal skin infections, including tinea capitis, tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and tinea pedis Specialized training in dermatology Topical and oral antifungal medications
Tinea Pedis Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including fungal infections Antifungal medications, topical treatments, foot hygiene education
Tinea Unguium Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including fungal infections Oral antifungal medications, topical treatments, sometimes nail removal
Tinnitus Otolaryngology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of ear, nose, and throat disorders, including hearing-related conditions Sound therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication management
Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA) Neurology, Emergency Medicine Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological emergencies, including stroke Intravenous administration of tPA, a thrombolytic agent used to dissolve blood clots
Toileting Disorders Diagnosis and treatment of problems related to urination and bowel movements, including incontinence and constipation Specialized training in urology, gastroenterology, or geriatrics Pelvic floor physical therapy, medication management, biofeedback
Tonsillectomy Otolaryngology Specialized training in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of ear, nose, and throat disorders, including procedures involving the tonsils Surgical removal of the tonsils, either partially or completely
Tonsillitis Otolaryngology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of ear, nose, and throat disorders, including infections of the tonsils Antibiotic therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, tonsillectomy in some cases
Torticollis Neurology, Orthopedics Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal and neurological disorders, including conditions affecting the neck Physical therapy, medication management, botulinum toxin injections, sometimes surgical intervention
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Dermatology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of severe, life-threatening skin conditions Supportive care, discontinuation of causative medication, sometimes immunosuppressive therapy
Toxic Multinodular Goiter Endocrinology Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders, including hyperactive thyroid conditions Antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, sometimes thyroidectomy
Toxic Shock Syndrome Infectious Disease Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of severe, life-threatening bacterial infections Antibiotic therapy, supportive care, sometimes surgical intervention
Tracheal Stenosis Diagnosis and treatment of abnormal narrowing of the trachea (windpipe) Specialized training in thoracic surgery or interventional pulmonology Tracheal dilation, stent placement, tracheal resection
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) Neurology Specialized training in the diagnosis and management of neurological disorders, including cerebrovascular diseases Antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy, management of underlying risk factors
Transposition of the Great Arteries Pediatric Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery Specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of congenital heart defects in children, including complex surgical procedures Arterial switch operation, atrial switch procedure, palliation with shunts

Descriptions

Tachyarrythmia
A rapid and abnormal heart rhythm, often requiring immediate medical intervention to restore normal heart function and prevent complications.
Tachycardia
An abnormally fast heart rate, which can be a symptom of various underlying conditions and may require treatment to prevent complications.
Tachypnea
Rapid and shallow breathing, which can be a sign of various respiratory or cardiovascular conditions and may require prompt medical attention.
Takayasu’s Arteritis
A rare form of vasculitis that primarily affects the aorta and its major branches, leading to stenosis, occlusion, and aneurysm formation.
Talipes Equinovarus
A congenital foot deformity characterized by an inward and upward turning of the foot, often requiring early intervention to prevent long-term complications.
Talorectomy
A surgical procedure to remove the talus bone, which is part of the ankle joint, often used to treat severe deformities or injuries.
Tarsorrhaphy
A surgical procedure that temporarily or permanently closes the eyelids, used to protect the cornea or facilitate healing in various eye conditions.
Tarsus Resection
A surgical procedure to remove a section of the tarsal bones, which make up the back part of the foot, often used to address deformities or arthritis.
Telangiectasia
Dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin, often appearing as small, spider-like or branching patterns, which can be a symptom of various underlying conditions.
Temporal Arteritis
A form of vasculitis that affects the temporal arteries, leading to inflammation, headaches, and potential complications such as vision loss if not treated promptly.
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
Encompasses a range of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw, face, and surrounding tissues. Often involves issues with the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
A condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull, often causing pain, clicking, and difficulty opening the mouth.
Tenosynovitis
Inflammation of the tendon sheath, often caused by repetitive motion or injury, leading to pain, swelling, and impaired movement in the affected area.
Tension Headache
A common type of headache characterized by a dull, aching pain or tightness around the head, often associated with stress, muscle tension, or poor posture.
Tension Pneumothorax
A medical emergency where air builds up in the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse and the mediastinum to shift, potentially leading to cardiovascular compromise.
Tension-Type Headache
A type of headache characterized by mild to moderate pain, often described as a ‘pressing’ or ‘tightening’ sensation, and typically affecting both sides of the head.
Testicular Cancer
A type of cancer that originates in the testicles, the male reproductive glands, and may require surgical removal of the affected testis, as well as other treatment modalities.
Tetanus
A serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that affects the nervous system, causing severe muscle spasms and contractions, often acquired through exposure to contaminated soil or injuries.
Tetralogy of Fallot
A complex congenital heart defect characterized by four primary abnormalities, including a ventricular septal defect, pulmonary stenosis, right ventricular hypertrophy, and an overriding aorta, often requiring surgical intervention in early childhood.
Thalassemia
A group of inherited blood disorders characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin, leading to various degrees of anemia and potentially serious complications, requiring ongoing management and monitoring.
Theileriosis
A tick-borne parasitic disease primarily affecting cattle and other livestock, caused by Theileria protozoa and leading to fever, anemia, and potentially fatal complications if left untreated.
Thermal Burn
Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by exposure to extreme heat, which can range in severity from minor superficial burns to life-threatening full-thickness injuries, requiring prompt and specialized medical care.
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
A localized dilation or weakening of the thoracic portion of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, which can lead to dissection or rupture if left untreated.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
A condition characterized by compression or irritation of the nerves and/or blood vessels passing through the thoracic outlet, the space between the collarbone and first rib, leading to pain, numbness, and other symptoms in the neck, shoulder, and arm.
Thromboangiitis Obliterans
Also known as Buerger’s disease, a rare condition characterized by inflammation and thrombosis (blood clots) in the small and medium-sized arteries and veins, primarily affecting the extremities and often associated with tobacco use.
Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger’s Disease)
A rare condition characterized by inflammation and obstruction of the blood vessels, often leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage in the extremities. It is closely associated with smoking.
Thrombocytopenia
A condition characterized by a low platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising, and may be caused by various underlying medical conditions or treatments.
Thromboembolism
The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) that becomes dislodged and travels through the bloodstream, potentially blocking a blood vessel (embolism) and causing serious complications such as stroke, pulmonary embolism, or deep vein thrombosis.
Thrombophilia
An increased tendency to form abnormal blood clots due to genetic or acquired factors, which can lead to life-threatening events such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or ischemic stroke.
Thrombosis
The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within a blood vessel, which can partially or completely block the flow of blood and lead to serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or ischemic stroke.
Thyroid Cancer
A type of cancer that originates in the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the neck, with various subtypes that can be treated with a combination of surgical, radiological, and pharmacological interventions.
Thyroid Eye Disease
Also known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy, a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the eyes, often associated with autoimmune thyroid disorders like Graves’ disease, which can lead to vision problems and cosmetic changes.
Thyroid Nodules
Discrete swellings or lumps that develop within the thyroid gland. Most are benign, but some may be cancerous, necessitating further evaluation and potential treatment.
Thyroiditis
Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can lead to changes in thyroid hormone production and various clinical manifestations, with different subtypes such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and subacute thyroiditis.
Tic Disorder
Involuntary, repetitive, and abrupt movements or vocalizations, which can range from mild to severe and are often associated with conditions like Tourette’s syndrome, requiring a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.
Tinea Capitis
A fungal infection of the scalp, often affecting children, characterized by patchy hair loss, scaling, and potentially inflammatory lesions, requiring prompt treatment to prevent spreading and potential complications.
Tinea Corporis
A fungal infection of the skin, often referred to as ‘ringworm,’ characterized by a circular, reddish, and sometimes scaly rash, which can occur on various areas of the body and is contagious.
Tinea Cruris
A fungal infection of the groin area, often referred to as ‘jock itch,’ characterized by a red, itchy rash in the creases of the skin, which can be challenging to treat due to the warm, moist environment.
Tinea Infections
A group of common fungal skin infections that can affect different parts of the body, such as the scalp (tinea capitis), body (tinea corporis), groin (tinea cruris), and feet (tinea pedis). They are often referred to as ‘ringworm’ infections.
Tinea Pedis
Also known as ‘athlete’s foot,’ a fungal infection of the feet, often occurring between the toes or on the soles, characterized by itching, scaling, and sometimes blistering, which can be recurrent and spread to other areas if not properly treated.
Tinea Unguium
A fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails, often referred to as ‘onychomycosis,’ characterized by thickening, discoloration, and brittleness of the nail, which can be difficult to treat and may require prolonged treatment.
Tinnitus
The perception of sound or ringing in the ears in the absence of an external sound source, which can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, such as hearing loss, noise exposure, or cardiovascular disorders, and may require a multifaceted approach to management.
Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA)
A medication used in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, which works by activating the body’s natural clot-dissolving mechanism, helping to restore blood flow and minimize brain damage when administered within a limited time window after stroke onset.
Toileting Disorders
A range of conditions that affect a person’s ability to control their bladder and/or bowels, including urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and chronic constipation. It can occur in both children and adults.
Tonsillectomy
A common surgical procedure to remove one or both tonsils, often performed to address recurrent infections, obstructive sleep apnea, or other conditions related to the tonsils.
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, which can lead to symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever, sometimes requiring medical treatment or surgical intervention.
Torticollis
A condition characterized by an abnormal, sustained contraction of the neck muscles, causing the head to tilt or rotate to one side, which can be congenital, acquired, or related to various underlying neurological or musculoskeletal conditions.
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
A rare and potentially fatal skin disorder characterized by the widespread detachment of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), often triggered by an adverse reaction to certain medications, which requires prompt diagnosis and management in a specialized setting.
Toxic Multinodular Goiter
A condition characterized by the development of multiple nodules within the thyroid gland, leading to excessive production of thyroid hormones and associated symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which may require medical or surgical treatment.
Toxic Shock Syndrome
A rare, potentially fatal condition caused by the release of toxins from certain strains of Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria, often associated with the use of super-absorbent tampons or certain surgical procedures, requiring prompt recognition and aggressive treatment.
Tracheal Stenosis
A condition characterized by the narrowing of the trachea, which can obstruct airflow and lead to breathing difficulties. It can be caused by various factors, including scarring, tumors, or inflammation.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Also known as a ‘mini-stroke,’ a temporary episode of neurological dysfunction caused by reduced blood flow to a specific part of the brain, which resolves within 24 hours and may be a precursor to a more severe stroke event, requiring prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
Transposition of the Great Arteries
A complex congenital heart defect in which the two main arteries leaving the heart (the aorta and the pulmonary artery) are reversed, requiring specialized surgical intervention in the first few weeks or months of life to reroute the blood flow and prevent life-

If you think there is a missing term, let us know using the contact form.