Anatomy and Physiology - Human Anatomy Flashcards

This flashcard set covers the definitions of Human Anatomy, Physiology, and the various positional and directional terms used in the study of the human body.

Human Anatomy

The study of the shape and structure of the human body and its parts.

Gross anatomy

Deals with large structures that can be seen through normal dissection.

Microscopic anatomy

Deals with the smaller structures and fine detail that can be seen only with the aid of a microscope.

Physiology

The scientific study of how body parts or their processes function; explained by chemical and physical properties.

Anterior

Pertaining to the front or belly side.

Posterior

Pertaining to the back of the body.

Superior (cranial or cephalad)

Toward the head end or upper part of a structure or body.

Inferior (caudal)

Away from the head end or toward the lower part of a structure or body.

Ventral (anterior)

Toward or at the front of the body; in front of.

Dorsal (posterior)

Toward or at the backside of the body; behind.

Medial

Toward or at the midline of the body; on the inner side of.

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body; on the outer side of.

Ipsilateral

Pertaining to the same side.

Contralateral

Pertaining to the opposite side.

Unilateral

Pertaining to one side.

Bilateral

Pertaining to both sides.

Proximal

Close to the origin of the body part or point of attachment of a limb to the body trunk.

Distal

Farther from the origin of a body part or the point of attachment of a limb to the body trunk.

Superficial (external)

On the body surface.

Deep (internal)

Away from the body surface; more internal.

Afferent

Pertaining to carrying toward a structure or a center.

Efferent

Pertaining to carrying away from a structure or a center.

Supine

Lying on one's back.

Prone

Lying on one's belly.