In a remarkable academic achievement, Mustafa Hussein Hamza Al-Asadi, a fifth-year student at Al-Kindy College of Medicine – University of Baghdad, has successfully identified and corrected a medical error found in a world-renowned surgical reference book.
The student discovered a factual inaccuracy in the book “MCQs and EMQs in Surgery: A Bailey & Love Companion”, a widely used reference for medical students and surgical trainees worldwide.
The error involved a question concerning large bowel obstruction, where the book stated that abdominal distension is a late clinical sign.
However, upon careful review of the main reference text, “Bailey & Love’s Short Practice of Surgery”, Mustafa identified that abdominal distension is, in fact, an early and characteristic sign of large bowel obstruction.
Recognizing the importance of scientific accuracy, Mustafa formally contacted the global publishing house CRC Press / Taylor & Francis, detailing the error and providing evidence from the primary source.
After six months of academic correspondence, he received an official response from Miranda Bromidge, Senior Publisher at Taylor & Francis, on June 10, 2025, confirming the validity of his observation and commending his precision and critical academic review.
This achievement highlights the scientific diligence, initiative, and sense of responsibility demonstrated by Al-Kindy students.
By identifying and communicating this correction, Mustafa not only upheld the principles of evidence-based medical education but also contributed to improving the accuracy and reliability of international medical resources.
The Dean of Al-Kindy College of Medicine, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Shihab Al-Aidani, expressed his pride in this accomplishment, affirming the college’s full support for such student-led initiatives and emphasizing the importance of cultivating critical thinking and editorial awareness among future physicians.
Mustafa’s success serves as an inspiring example for medical students across Iraq and beyond—demonstrating that attention to detail, curiosity, and commitment to accuracy are key elements of professional medical excellence.
