Introduction to Topographic Anatomy

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering terms, definitions, subdisciplines, and organ systems from the Introduction to Topographic Anatomy lecture.

Anatomy

The science studying the form, architecture, and interrelations of the different elements of the body, derived from the Greek words aná ("through") and tomé ("to cut").

Embryology

The subdiscipline of anatomy that studies structures generated from the fertilization of the ovum up to the 8th week in the uterus.

Developmental Anatomy

The branch of anatomy that studies structures arising from the fertilization of the ovum up to the adult form.

Cytology

The study of the chemical and microscopic structure of cells.

Histology

The study of the microscopic structure of tissues.

Gross Anatomy

Also called general anatomy, the branch of anatomy dealing with body structures that can be examined without a microscope.

Systemic Anatomy

The study of specific organ systems in the body, such as the nervous and respiratory systems, which work together to perform complex functions.

Regional Anatomy

Also known as topographic anatomy, the branch of anatomy that focuses on specific regions of the body (such as the head or thorax) and considers body organization in terms of its main segments.

Radiographic Anatomy

The branch of anatomy studying internal body structures that can be visualized using X-rays.

Pathological Anatomy

The branch of anatomy studying macroscopic and microscopic structural changes related to disease.

Main Parts of the Body

The primary structural divisions of the body: head, neck, trunk (thorax, abdomen, back, and pelvis/perineum), upper limbs, and lower limbs.

Regions of the Lower Limb

The 10 specific regions into which the lower limb is subdivided: gluteal region, anterior thigh, posterior thigh, anterior knee, posterior knee, anterior leg, posterior leg, anterior talocrural (ankle) region, posterior talocrural region, and foot region.

Layered Body Organization

The structural arrangement of the body in layers: skin, subcutaneous tissue, and deep fascia, which cover deeper structures such as muscles, bones, and visceral cavities.

Surface Anatomy

A branch of topographic anatomy that involves a thorough understanding of anatomical structures situated beneath the body surface.

Skeletal System

The system comprising bones and cartilage that provides shape and support, protects vital organs, and serves as levers for muscle action.

Articular System

The system composed of joints and associated ligaments that connect bony parts and mark the points where movement occurs.

Skeletal Muscles

Muscles that contract to move or position various parts of the body.

Smooth and Cardiac Muscles

Involuntary muscle types that propel, expel, or regulate the flow of fluids and contained substances.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of the brain (encéfalo) and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia with their motor and sensory endings.

Nervous System Functions

The control and coordination of organ system functions, enabling body responses to the environment and its activities within it.

Circulatory System

The combined system consisting of the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, which work in parallel to transport fluids through the body.

Cardiovascular System

The heart and blood vessels, which pump and conduct blood to deliver oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells while removing waste products.

Lymphatic System

A network of vessels that drains excess interstitial fluid (lymph) from tissue spaces, filters it through lymph nodes, and returns it to the blood circulation.