Lateral

Information:

Definition:
To the side of, or away from, the midline of the body. The ears are lateral to the nose. The arms are lateral to the chest.


Anatomical areas on the side of the body that may be referred to in the symptom analysis section are labeled. These three body views (front, back, and side) may be helpful if you are uncertain of a body area. Many areas are referred to by both descriptive and technical names. For example, the back of the knee is called the popliteal fossa. However, areas like the "flank" may not have both terms so the location may be unclear. These illustrations should clarify the position of those anatomical sites.