Human Anatomy & Organ Systems: Key Concepts and Terminology

Anatomy

the study or knowledge of the structure (form) and function of the human body

Human physiology

the study of how the human body functions

Histology

the study of organic tissues (microscopic)

Etymology

word origin, important for understanding anatomical terms

Card-

root meaning heart

Encephal-

root meaning brain

Myo-

root meaning muscle

Vascul-

root meaning vessel

Ana-

prefix meaning 'up'

-logy

suffix meaning 'the study of something'

Tomos

Greek word meaning 'to cut'

Microscopic Anatomy

the study of structures that require a microscope to be seen

Gross Anatomy

the study of structures that can be seen with the naked eye

Skeletal System

the organ system that provides structure and support to the body

Muscular System

the organ system that enables movement of the body

Integumentary System

the organ system that includes skin, hair, and nails

Nervous/Sensory System

the organ system that controls and coordinates body activities through electrical signals

Endocrine System

the organ system that produces hormones to regulate body functions

Cardiovascular System

the organ system that circulates blood throughout the body

Respiratory System

the organ system responsible for breathing and gas exchange

Digestive System

the organ system that processes food and absorbs nutrients

Urinary System

the organ system that removes waste products from the body

Reproductive System

the organ system involved in producing offspring

Digestive & Urinary System

Digests food, absorbs nutrients to blood, removes metabolic waste from blood, and helps maintain homeostasis.

Reproductive System (Male)

Produces and transports sperm, hormones, and sexual functions.

Reproductive System (Female)

Produces and transports oocytes (eggs), hormones, and supports fetal development, lactation, and childbirth.