Intro to human body

Anatomy

Study of structure; derived from the term meaning "to cut apart."

Physiology

Study of function; refers to natural function or "nature."

Standard Anatomical Position

A reference position to avoid confusion when discussing anatomy.

Left vs

Lateral directional references based on the subject's anatomical position.

Directional Terms

Terms used to describe locations in the body, including superior/inferior and anterior/posterior.

Levels of Organization

Ranges from chemical (e.g., proteins) to organismal (the individual).

Chemical Level

Composed of proteins, lipids, DNA/RNA, carbohydrates, ions, water, and minerals.

Cellular Level

The basic structural and functional unit of life.

Tissues

Collections of similar cells working together, including extracellular components.

Organs

Collections of similar tissues working together.

Organ Systems

Groups of organs working together for a common purpose.

Systemic Anatomy

Study of the body by systems (e.g., cardiovascular).

Regional Anatomy

Study of the body by areas (e.g., cranial, thoracic).

Compartmentalization

Organization of body structures into distinct compartments, such as serous membranes.

Homeostasis

Regulation of internal conditions, such as body temperature and blood pressure.

Signal Transduction

The process by which hormones and chemical mediators affect cellular activity.

Orientation

Starting in standard anatomical position provides a common reference point.

Common Anatomical Terms

Specific terms used to describe body parts, such as olecranal (back of the elbow).

Body Cavities

Eucoelomic cavities lined by peritoneum, including cranial, spinal, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic cavities.

Quadrants

Four divisions of the abdominopelvic area used for reference (e.g., RUQ, LUQ).

Abdominopelvic Regions

Nine regions used to describe locations within the abdominal and pelvic cavities.

Disease

Disruption of homeostasis, which can be infectious, genetic, or autoimmune.

Aging

The body's natural decline in maintaining homeostasis, leading to eventual death.