AMA Manual of Style - Stacy L. Christiansen, Cheryl Iverson 2020
Latin and Greek vs English
Plurals
There is a trend toward using English plurals rather than Latin or Greek, particularly for more common words (Table 9.4-1). However, in most cases the latest edition of Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary or Dorland’s or Stedman’s medical dictionary should be followed. Consistency within a manuscript is key.
Table 9.4-1. Preferred Plurals for Latin and Greek Words
Singular |
Preferred plural |
alga |
algae |
amoeba |
amoebas |
appendix |
appendixes or appendices [consult dictionary for specific usage] |
cannula |
cannulas |
condyloma acuminatum |
condylomata acuminata [with 2-word Latin plural, both parts become plural] |
cranium |
crania |
esophagus |
esophagi |
fistula |
fistulas |
formula |
formulas |
genus |
genera |
index |
indexes or indices [consult dictionary for specific usage] |
maxilla |
maxillas |
orbit |
orbits |
rhytid |
rhytids |
sequela |
sequelae |
vertebra |
vertebrae |