Overview of Human Anatomy

These flashcards cover key concepts in human anatomy as presented in the lecture notes, including definitions and explanations of major terms and ideas related to the structure and organization of the human body.

Anatomy

The study of structure and organization of living organisms.

Physiology

The study of function in living organisms.

Microscopic Anatomy

Examines structures too small to be seen with the unaided eye, including cytology and histology.

Gross Anatomy

Structures that can be seen with the unaided eye, approached in various ways such as regional or systemic anatomy.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment within the body.

Histology

The study of tissues under a microscope.

Cytology

The study of cells.

Embryology

The study of developmental changes occurring prior to birth.

Pathologic Anatomy

Anatomic changes resulting from disease.

Radiographic Anatomy

The study of structures visualized by medical imaging procedures such as X-ray or MRI.

Serous Membranes

Membranes that line the body cavities and cover organs, consisting of parietal and visceral layers.

Abdominopelvic Regions

Imaginary divisions used to describe the locations of organs within the abdominopelvic cavity.

Directional Terms

Terms such as anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior used to describe the location of structures relative to each other.

Organ System

Groups of organs that work together to perform specific functions.

Axial Region

The body region that includes the head, neck, and trunk.

Appendicular Region

The body region that includes the upper and lower limbs.

Parietal Layer

The part of a serous membrane that lines the internal surface of the body wall.

Visceral Layer

The part of a serous membrane that covers the external surface of organs.

Coronal Plane

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

Transverse Plane

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

Midsagittal Plane

Divides the body into equal left and right halves.