Nomenclature

The Nomenclature chapter of the 11th edition of the AMA Manual of Style attempts to explain not how names for specific entities should be devised (although the sources of such rules are cited whenever possible) but rather which names should be used and how they should be styled. Official systems of nomenclature are not universally observed to the letter (literally or figuratively), but there is an attempt to be consistent with official guidelines. The work of international groups, tradition, and flexibility combine to provide an approach that attempts to balance official systems and actual usage. Guidelines for nomenclature in the following areas are covered: blood groups, platelet antigens, and granulocyte antigens; cancer; cardiology; drugs; equipment, devices, and reagents; genetics; hemostasis; immunology; isotopes; molecular medicine; neurology; obstetrics; ophthalmology; organisms and pathogens; psychiatry; pulmonary, respiratory, and blood gas terminology; and radiology. A preview of a new section on nephrology is also included.