To classify means to arrange different entities in classes, groups, or categories, according to similar characteristics, based on defined criteria. Classification usually involves the categorization of relevant natural language for the purposes of systematic analysis within a single field of concepts. In the case of diseases and [Page 547]health problems, there are many possible axes along which to organize a classification, including anatomy, etiology, and pathology, and the axis used will depend on the intended use of the compiled data.

The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (the complete name oftheClassificationalsoknownbytheacronymof ICD) is a global standard and international public tool for organizing and classifying information about diseases and other related health problems. It is a detailed list of known diseases, injuries, external causes ...