Which medical branch focuses on gastrointestinal tract diseases?

Gastroenterology is the medical branch that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes organs such as the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, intestines, and rectum. Gastroenterologists are trained to handle a wide range of GI issues, from common conditions like acid reflux and ulcers to more complex diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and liver disorders. This specialty plays a critical role in managing both acute and chronic conditions affecting digestion and overall gastrointestinal health.

The other options represent different areas of medicine. Cardiology focuses on heart-related diseases, neurology deals with the nervous system and brain disorders, while pediatrics is centered around the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. Each of these branches addresses a specific set of medical concerns distinct from those treated in gastroenterology.