Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on key terms and definitions from the lecture notes on human anatomy and physiology.

Anatomy

Study of body structures and their interrelations.

Physiology

Study of body parts' functions.

Gross Anatomy

Structures visible without microscopy.

Microscopic Anatomy

Structures requiring a microscope to view.

Homeostasis

Steady internal conditions maintained by living organisms.

Feedback Systems

Mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis, including negative and positive feedback.

Negative Feedback

Opposes variation from normal limits, returning conditions to normal.

Positive Feedback

Initial stimulus enhances response, continuing until homeostasis is restored.

Autopoiesis

Living organisms are self-organizing and self-maintaining.

Cell Theory

A living organism consists of one or more cells.

Metabolism

Chemical processes within a living organism to maintain life.

Oxygen

Essential for ATP production and chemical reactions.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts, including carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.

Micronutrients

Nutrients required in smaller amounts, including vitamins and minerals.

Chemical Level

Atoms bond to form molecules; foundational chemical processes occur.

Cellular Level

Molecules combine to form the fluid and organelles of cells.

Tissue Level

Similar cells form tissues.

Organ Level

Different tissues combine to form organs.

Organ System Level

Related organs with common functions.

Bilateral Symmetry

Characteristic of the body allowing for balanced movement, with ipsilateral and contralateral structures.

Sagittal Plane

Divides the body into right and left.

Coronal Plane

Divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back).

Transverse Plane

Divides the body into upper (superior) and lower (inferior).

Directional Terms

Describes locations in relation to the body: superior, inferior, cranial, caudal, anterior, posterior, medial, lateral, proximal, distal.

Ventral Body Cavity

Contains thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities.

Dorsal Body Cavity

Contains cranial and spinal cavities.

Homeostasis Components

Includes receptor, control center, and effector.

Epidermis

Outer layer of skin composed of keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium.

Dermis

Layer beneath the epidermis containing blood vessels, nerves, and hair follicles.

Hypodermis

Subcutaneous layer connecting skin to underlying tissues.

Keratinocytes

Primary cell type in the epidermis providing hardness and resilience.

Melanocytes

Cells that produce melanin, influencing skin pigmentation.

Langerhans Cells

Dendritic cells involved in immune response in the skin.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands that secrete sebum, a lipid-rich oil with antifungal properties.

Sudoriferous Glands

Sweat glands regulating body temperature.

First-degree Burns

Only affect the epidermis, healing within days.

Second-degree Burns

Affect epidermis and part of dermis, causing swelling and blistering.

Third-degree Burns

Extend through dermis, often requiring medical attention.

Cardiac Muscle

Involuntary muscle found in the heart; striated with intercalated discs.

Skeletal Muscle

Voluntary muscle attached to bones; striated appearance.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle forming sheets around organs; non-striated.

Osteoblasts

Bone-forming cells that secrete bone matrix.

Osteocytes

Mature osteoblasts that maintain bone matrix.

Osteoclasts

Erosive cells that break down bone matrix.