What is a Letter to the Editor? 

A letter to the editor in a medical journal serves as a concise written communication where readers, including healthcare professionals, researchers, and scholars, can express their thoughts, opinions, and concerns regarding a specific article or topic published in the journal. It provides a platform for open dialogue and scholarly exchange, allowing readers to contribute additional insights, critique research findings, propose alternative interpretations, share personal experiences, or suggest areas for further investigation. These letters enrich the scientific discourse, promote collaboration, and facilitate the advancement of medical knowledge within the scientific community. 

Why are they important? 

They are important because they foster a culture of intellectual exchange and contribute to the refinement of scientific research. They offer an opportunity for readers to critically analyse published work, helping to identify potential limitations, errors, or gaps in the findings. By providing constructive criticism, these letters encourage researchers to address shortcomings and improve the quality and accuracy of their work. Additionally, letters to the editor enable the sharing of diverse perspectives and experiences, enhancing the understanding of complex medical issues and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. They stimulate discussions, propose new ideas, and highlight areas that require further investigation, ultimately contributing to the growth and advancement of medical research, improving patient care, and advancing health outcomes. 

Common types of Editorial letter: 

• Response Letters: Provide a direct response to a specific article published in the journal, offering feedback, criticism, or additional insights 

• Case Reports : Present unique or noteworthy clinical cases, often emphasising their diagnostic challenges, management approaches, or lessons learned 

• Research Letters: Share concise reports on research studies, including preliminary findings, methodology descriptions, or updates on ongoing research projects 

• Commentary Letters: Offer commentary, analysis, or opinion on a particular medical topic, research area, or emerging trend, providing insightful perspectives or alternative viewpoints 

Dos: 

• Provide specific comments instead of general ones. 
• Use concise and precise language in your letter. 
• Base your comments on scientific evidence rather than personal biases. 
• Offer a fresh perspective on the subject matter. 
• Present additional data to support your points. 
• Maintain a polite and relevant tone. 

Don’ts: 

• Do not overload your letter with excessive figures, tables, or references. 
• Refrain from repeating topics already covered in the original article. 
• Ensure your message and conclusions are clear and unambiguous. 
• Keep your letter concise and avoid unnecessary length. 
• Avoid including information that is not new or helpful. 
• Avoid making irrelevant remarks about the published article. 
• Avoid adopting a disrespectful or negative attitude. 

Proofreading: 

Thoroughly revise your letter to ensure it is clear, coherent, and grammatically accurate. Check for any factual errors or inconsistencies that may weaken your arguments. Consider seeking input from colleagues or mentors to obtain valuable feedback before finalising your letter. 

Following Submission Guidelines: 

Adhere closely to the specific guidelines provided by the journal for submitting letters to the editor. Pay careful attention to formatting requirements, referencing style, word count limitations, and any additional criteria or instructions outlined by the journal. 

Submitting Your Letter: 

Submit your letter through the designated submission portal or email address provided by the journal. Include your contact information, affiliations, and, if applicable, disclose any conflicts of interest as requested by the journal’s guidelines. 

Further reading:  

NIH- How to write an editorial letter https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4548563/#:~:text=Letters%20written%20to%20the%20editor,a%20brief%2C%20and%20clear%20language.

The BMJ – Writing a letter to a medical journal https://www.bmj.com/content/331/7521/s169

Written by Natalie Ko (Final Year Medical Student at University of Bristol)

Reviewed by Nilesh Chatterjee, PhD