Organization of the Human Body

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the organization of the human body, its systems, anatomy, and physiology concepts.

Anatomy

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

Physiology

The study of the functions of the body and its parts.

Homeostasis

The ability of the body to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical processes that occur in the body, including anabolism and catabolism.

Embryology

The study of the development of an embryo from the fertilization to fetal stages.

Pathology

The study of diseases and the changes they cause in the body.

Organ system

A group of organs that work together to perform a specific function.

Tissue

A group of similar cells that perform a common function.

Epithelial tissue

Tissue that covers the surfaces of the body and lines cavities and organs.

Connective tissue

Tissue that supports, binds, and protects other tissues and organs.

Muscular system

The system that allows movement of the body and maintains posture.

Nervous system

The body's fast-acting control system that coordinates responses to internal and external stimuli.

Endocrine system

A system of glands that secrete hormones to regulate processes such as growth and metabolism.

Cardiovascular system

The system that transports blood throughout the body, carrying oxygen and nutrients.

Respiratory system

The system that provides oxygen to the body and removes carbon dioxide.

Digestive system

The system responsible for breaking down food into absorbable nutrients and eliminating waste.

Urinary system

The system that eliminates waste and regulates water and electrolyte balance.

Lymphatic system

The system that helps defend the body against infections and returns leaked fluids to the bloodstream.

Superior

Toward the head or upper part of a structure.

Inferior

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

Medial

Toward the midline of the body.

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body.

Proximal

Closer to the origin of a body part.

Distal

Farther from the origin of a body part.

Superficial

Toward or at the body surface.

Deep

Away from the body surface; more internal.

Viscera

Internal organs housed within body cavities.