Nostology refers to the study of diseases and their causes. Although it is a highly specific term, there are a few synonyms that can be used in its place. One such term is nosology, which is the broader study of classification and categorization of diseases. Another synonym is pathogenesis, which refers to the study of the development and progression of diseases. Medical classification is also a similar concept, in which diseases are categorized according to their symptoms and causes. Additionally, medical taxonomy refers to the system of classification of living organisms, which can also be applied to diseases. Despite the specifics of the term "nostology", there are various related terms that can be used interchangeably.