GEN ANA

Anatomy

Derived from Greek "ana" (up) and "tome" (cutting), it refers to the study of body structures.

Human Anatomy

The study of parts of the human body and their relationships to one another.

Physiology

The study of how body parts function.

Morphology

Deals with the structures, spatial relationships, materials used, and architecture of the human body.

Cell

The fundamental unit structure of all living things, characterized by common and differing functions.

Tissue

A collection of similar cells that have the same function.

Organ

A group of fundamental tissues working together to perform specific functions.

System

A group of organs that work together for a common function.

Gross Anatomy

The study of the body parts visible to the naked eye.

Microscopic Anatomy

The study of small structures that can only be seen with the aid of lenses.

Histology

The study of body tissues.

Cytology

The study of body cells.

Developmental Anatomy

The study of the origin, growth, and development of an organism from conception to birth.

Neuroanatomy

The study of the nervous system.

Regional Anatomy

The study of relationships of structures within a particular area of the body.

Systemic Anatomy

The study of parts of the body categorized by their similar structure and related functions.

Surface Anatomy

Describes the external features and landmarks of the body as they relate to underlying structures.

Radiographic Anatomy

The study of body structures using imaging techniques such as X-rays.

Applied Anatomy

The application of anatomical knowledge to clinical and surgical practice.

Anatomic Position

A standing position used as a reference for describing the location of parts of the body.

Superior or Cranial

Nearer to the head or higher up.

Inferior or Caudal

Farther from the head or lower down.

Anterior or Ventral

Nearer to the front or belly side of the body.

Posterior or Dorsal

Nearer to the back of the body.

Medial

Nearer to the midline of the body.

Lateral

Farther from the midline of the body.

Proximal

Nearer to the point of origin of a part.

Distal

Farther from the point of origin of a part.

Internal

Closer to the central axis of the body.

External

Farther from the central axis of the body.

Superficial

Nearer to the surface of the body.

Deep

Farther away from the surface of the body.

Axial Region

The part of the body that comprises the head, neck, and trunk.

Appendicular Region

The limbs or appendages of the body.

Frontal Plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into anterior and posterior parts.

Sagittal Plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into right and left parts.

Transverse Plane

A horizontal plane that divides the body into superior and inferior parts.

Urinary System

Regulates water, electrolytes, and acid-base balance in the body.

Reproductive System

Responsible for the production of offspring.

Respiratory System

Supplies blood with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide.

Digestive System

Breaks down food for absorption and eliminates indigestible waste.

Muscular System

Muscles responsible for body movement.

Nervous System

Controls homeostasis via brain, nerves, and spinal cord.

Integumentary System

External body covering (skin) that protects deeper tissues.

Skeletal System

Bones that protect and support body organs.

Endocrine System

Secretes hormones to regulate body processes.

Cardiovascular System

Transports blood throughout the body.

Lymphatic/Immune System

Protects the body by attacking foreign substances.