anamneesis

Anamnesis, sometimes spelled anamneesis, commonly referred to as a medical history in a clinical setting, refers to the patient’s account of their past and present health. In clinical practice it complements the physical examination and diagnostic testing. The clinician gathers information through an interview, focusing on the chief complaint, history of present illness, past medical and surgical history, medications, allergies, family history, social and occupational factors, and review of systems.

Etymology: from Greek aná mnésis meaning recollection or memory. In medicine the term emphasizes patient-reported memory of events, symptoms, and prior interventions rather than objective findings.

Beyond medicine, anamnesis also appears in philosophy and theology. In Platonism, anamnesis is the theory that knowledge is recollection of innate ideas previously acquired. In Christian liturgy, anamnesis designates the remembrance of Christ’s saving act, particularly in the Eucharistic rite, understood as making past events present.

Practice and interpretation: A thorough anamnesis supports diagnosis and risk assessment, guides treatment decisions, and informs preventive care. It has limitations, including recall bias and the influence of current symptoms on memory. Documentation varies by setting, with standardized forms and checklists used to ensure comprehensive coverage while maintaining patient privacy.