Anatomical terminology/clinical terminology

Abstract

AbstractNearly 100 years ago, the first formal attempt was made to standardize anatomical nomenclature. As Latin was the only language that many countries had in common, it formed the basis of anatomical terminology. It is common and accepted practice to translate the Latin terms into the language of the country concerned. As anatomical terminology is complex, it becomes very difficult when two or more widely accepted terms are used for the same structure (e.g., epiploic foramen and foramen of Winslow). In 1950, an International Anatomical Nomenclature Committee was formed to standardize anatomical terminology. It produced a book called Nomina Anatomica, which is now in its fifth edition. Many physicians with whom medical and other students are associated are unfamiliar with this new terminology. As a result they use terms, often synonyms, with which they are familiar. Members of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists are urged to use the terminology recommended in the Nomina Anatomica;, fifth edition, and to encourage their clinical colleagues to adopt the new terminology by giving both terms as follows: internal thoracic artery, (formerly called the internal mammary artery). In due course, anatomists and clinicians will be using the same terms and medical and other students will be most grateful.