Anatomy and Physiology Concepts and Subdivisions

Vocabulary flashcards covering core definitions, major subdivisions, and diagnostic tools of anatomy and physiology based on the introductory lecture notes.

Anatomy

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

Physiology

The study of the function of the body, focusing on how body parts work and carry out their life-sustaining activities.

Gross anatomy

Macroscopic anatomy involving the study of large body structures visible to the naked eye, such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

Regional anatomy

A subdivision of gross anatomy in which all structures (muscles, bones, blood vessels, nerves, etc.) in a particular region of the body are examined at the same time.

Systemic anatomy

A subdivision of gross anatomy in which body structure is studied system by system.

Surface anatomy

A subdivision of gross anatomy that studies internal structures as they relate to the overlying skin surface.

Microscopic anatomy

The study of body structures that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Cytology

A subdivision of microscopic anatomy that considers the cells of the body.

Histology

A subdivision of microscopic anatomy that involves the study of tissues.

Developmental anatomy

A branch of anatomy that traces structural changes that occur throughout the life span.

Embryology

A subdivision of developmental anatomy that concerns developmental changes occurring before birth.

Pathological anatomy

A specialized branch of anatomy that studies structural changes caused by disease.

Radiographic anatomy

A specialized branch of anatomy that studies internal structures as visualized by X-ray images or specialized scanning procedures.

Palpation

An anatomical examination tool in a living person involving feeling organs with your hands.

Auscultation

An anatomical examination tool in a living person involving listening to organ sounds with a stethoscope.