Nomina Anatomica

Nomina Anatomica (NA) was an international standard on human anatomic terminology, developed by the Federative Committee on Anatomical Terminology (FCAT) and published by the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists (IFAA). It was first published in 1895 and was superseded by the Terminologia Anatomica in 1998.

History

The first edition of the Nomina Anatomica was published in 1895 by the Anatomische Gesellschaft, a German-based scientific society dedicated to the advancement of anatomical sciences. The work was a response to the need for a standardized and universally accepted system of anatomical nomenclature. The Nomina Anatomica underwent several revisions, with the sixth and final edition published in 1998.

Structure

The Nomina Anatomica is organized into systems and regions, with each anatomical structure assigned a unique Latin name. The names are based on the structure's location, function, or historical significance. The NA also includes a set of rules for the formation of new terms and the modification of existing ones.

Impact

The Nomina Anatomica has had a significant impact on the field of anatomy. It has provided a standardized language for the description of human anatomy, facilitating communication and collaboration among anatomists worldwide. Despite being superseded by the Terminica Anatomica, the NA continues to be used and referenced in many academic and clinical settings.

See also

• Terminologia Anatomica
• International Federation of Associations of Anatomists
• Anatomical terminology