befundreicher

The term befundreicher is an adjective used in German medical language to describe a report, record, or case that contains many findings, often abnormal. The term emphasizes the abundance of identified abnormalities rather than their individual significance. It is formed from Befund (finding) and reich (rich, abundant).

Usage and nuance: It is primarily used in clinical writing and oral communication among physicians, radiologists, and pathologists. It is not a formal diagnostic category or a standardized term across guidelines. The label befundreicher can signal increased complexity of the case and may indicate that a structured, system-based description is warranted to ensure clarity.

Contexts: The term is commonly encountered in radiology reporting (for example CT or MRI) where multiple lesions or anomalies are detected, as well as in pathology and clinical summaries with several abnormal findings. It is sometimes contrasted with befundarm, which denotes few findings.

Examples: In a radiology note, the report might state that the chest CT is befundreicher with multiple nodules and minor consolidations. In a clinical summary, a befundreicher presentation could refer to several concurrent abnormal values across different tests.

Limitations and guidance: Because the term is informal and subjective, its interpretation varies by clinician and institution. For precise communication, it is preferable to enumerate findings and organize them by organ system or diagnostic category.

See also: Befund, Befundbericht, Radiologie, Pathologie.