Abstract
Editor:
As an anatomist, I have spent my academic life supporting simplistic accurate anatomical terminology that adheres to the rules established by the authors of Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria (2005). Despite this dedication, a former student of mine recently asked me why a nerve is identified as peripheral when there are no central nerves. I commended this obvious observation and wondered why I had never thought of it myself. We have central and peripheral nervous systems, but all nerves are peripheral and do not need this designation. Therefore, the excellent publication in the November issue of Veterinary Pathology (46:1166–1180, 2009) concerned the characteristics of feline nerve sheath tumors rather than feline peripheral nerve sheath tumors. The use of peripheral with nerves is redundant and unnecessary. I urge you to join me in making this change.