Anatomical Directions and Homeostasis

Review of key concepts in anatomical direction and homeostasis essential for understanding physiology.

What is anatomical direction relative to in a medical context?

Anatomical direction is relative to the patient or cadaver.

What does medial mean in anatomical terms?

Medial means towards the midline of the body.

What is the definition of lateral?

Lateral means away from the midline of the body.

In limbs, what does proximal refer to?

Proximal refers to a position closer to the body.

What does distal indicate in anatomical context?

Distal indicates a position further away from the body.

Contrast anterior and posterior.

Anterior means towards the front, while posterior means towards the back.

What does superficial refer to in anatomical terms?

Superficial refers to being more towards the surface of the skin.

Define deep in an anatomical context.

Deep refers to more internal or further away from the surface.

What are the two major divisions of the body?

The two major divisions are axial (head, neck, trunk) and appendicular (limbs).

What is the purpose of body cavities?

Body cavities are spaces that contain and protect organs.

Explain what a midsagittal plane is.

A midsagittal plane divides the body vertically down the midline into right and left parts.

What does a transverse plane do?

A transverse plane divides the body horizontally into superior and inferior parts.

What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment within physiological limits.

How does negative feedback function in the body?

Negative feedback opposes or reduces the original stimulus to maintain homeostasis.

What is an example of positive feedback in the body?

Labor contractions during childbirth due to the hormone oxytocin is an example of positive feedback.

What role do receptors play in homeostasis?

Receptors detect changes in the environment and send signals to the control center.

What is the function of the control center in homeostasis?

The control center processes information and determines the response to stimuli.

What do effectors do in the control system of homeostasis?

Effectors carry out the response from the control center to effect change.

What does 'afferent pathway' refer to in homeostasis?

The afferent pathway carries signals from receptors to the control center.

What is the role of the brain in homeostasis?

The brain acts as a control center, processing information and coordinating responses.

How does the body respond to a decrease in temperature?

The body responds by shivering to generate heat and increase temperature.

What happens in positive feedback mechanisms?

Positive feedback mechanisms enhance or amplify responses, leading to an outcome.

Give an example of a situation that requires homeostasis.

Maintaining body temperature, pH levels, and blood glucose levels are examples.