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TSD / Cataloging and Metadata Management: Using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH®) in Cataloging

Module 2— Descriptor Records


Annotation

  • Information for indexers and catalogers concerning the proper use of the descriptor
    • Example
      • The record for Acromegaly has an annotation: coordinate with GROWTH HORMONE/secret in animals or HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE/secret in humans if pertinent
    • Generally, words in all caps are hyperlinked to the related descriptor record

Scope Note

  • Information on the scope and meaning of a descriptor
    • Example
      • The record for Arthroplasty contains the scope note: Surgical reconstruction of a joint to relieve pain or restore motion
    • Generally, words in all caps are hyperlinked to the related descriptor record

Entry Terms

  • Entry terms, sometimes called "See cross-references" in printed listings, are synonyms, alternate forms, and other closely related terms

See Also References

  • Also known as "associative relationships"
  • Used for a variety of relationships between descriptor records where a user of one descriptor is pointed to another descriptor which also may be relevant
  • See also references are hyperlinked to the related record
  • Example
    • Relationship between a disease and its cause
      • Factor XIII Deficiencysee also Factor XIIIa
    • Between an organ and a physiological process
      • Bone and Bonessee also Osteogenesis
    • Between an organ and a drug acting on it
      • Bronchisee also Bronchoconstrictor Agents
    • Between an organ and a procedure
      • Bile Ductssee also Cholangiography

Consider Also References

  • Reference to other descriptors having related linguistic roots
  • Used primarily with anatomical descriptors to refer to groups of descriptors beginning with a common stem rather than to a single descriptor
    • Example
      • Brain consider also terms at CEREBR- and ENCEPHAL-


Last Reviewed: July 18, 2017