Welcome to the section where we break down the basic tools of the medical language. Here you will find generally accepted abbreviations in anatomical nomenclature (from arteries to muscles and nerves), the rules of reading and pronunciation of the Latin alphabet, as well as a historical excursion into medical symbolism — the famous emblem of the burning candle, symbolizing the motto Aliis inserviendo consumor ("Lighting others, I burn myself").
During practical classes and credit tests, instructors most frequently ask specifically for anatomical abbreviations: you must instantly distinguish v. (vena) from vv. (venae), m. (musculus) from mm. (musculi) and correctly apply them when describing structures. This saves time and immediately demonstrates your professional literacy.
Knowledge of Latin phonetics and the alphabet is the foundation without which it is impossible to correctly read any diagnosis or prescription. Begin your study of the section precisely with the phonetic rules in order to feel confident when answering at the anatomical table.