Organ Systems

These flashcards provide definitions and descriptions of key vocabulary related to organ systems.

Organ

Structure made up of two or more kinds of tissues that can perform a more complex function than a single tissue.

Organ System

Group of organs that perform a more complex function than can any organ alone.

Integumentary System

Only one organ, the skin; includes appendages like hair, nails, and glands.

Skin Appendages

Structures such as hair, nails, sweat glands, and oil glands associated with the skin.

Primary Function of Integumentary System

Protection.

Function of Integumentary System

Regulation of body temperature, synthesis of chemicals, and sensory reception.

Skeletal System

Structure composed of bones, cartilage, and ligaments.

Bones

Organs of the skeletal system, with 206 named bones in the skeleton.

Cartilage

Connects and cushions joined bones in the skeletal system.

Function of Skeletal System

Supports body framework, protects internal organs, facilitates movement.

Ligaments

Bands of fibrous tissue that hold bones together at joints.

Joints

Connections between bones that allow movement.

Muscular System

Composed of muscles; can be voluntary or involuntary.

Striated Muscle

Voluntary muscle that is under conscious control.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle found in the walls of some organs.

Cardiac Muscle

Involuntary muscle that makes up the heart.

Function of Muscular System

Movement.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Consists of cranial nerves, spinal nerves, and sense organs.

Function of Nervous System

Communication, control, integration of body functions, and recognition of stimuli.

Endocrine System

Made up of glands that secrete hormones for communication and control.

Pituitary Gland

A major hormone-secreting gland in the endocrine system.

Communication in Endocrine System

Similar to the nervous system but slower and longer-lasting.

Cardiovascular System

Also referred to as the circulatory system, includes the heart and blood vessels.

Function of Cardiovascular System

Transportation of substances, regulation of body temperature, and immunity.

Lymphatic System

Composed of lymphatic vessels, nodes, and organs essential for immunity.

Function of Lymphatic System

Transportation of lymph and immunity.

Immune System

Definition includes protective cells and various secretory proteins.

Phagocytes

Protective immune cells that ingest harmful organisms.

Respiratory System

Includes structures such as the nose, trachea, and lungs for gas exchange.

Function of Respiratory System

Exchange of gases and filtration of irritants from air.

Digestive System

Composed of primary and accessory organs for food breakdown and nutrient absorption.

Primary Organs of Digestive System

Include mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

Accessory Organs of Digestive System

Teeth, salivary glands, liver, and pancreas that assist in digestion.

Function of Urinary System

Removes waste from blood, regulates electrolyte and water balance.

Structures of Male Reproductive System

Includes testes, vas deferens, and prostate.

Structures of Female Reproductive System

Includes ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.

Function of Reproductive Systems

Survival of genes, production of sex cells, and nourishment of offspring.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment by organ systems.

Organ Replacement

The process of replacing organs or restoring functions, especially after loss.

Examples of Prostheses

Artificial devices like limbs or organs that replace missing body parts.

Pacemaker

An artificial device that helps regulate the heart's rhythm.

Stem Cell Treatment

Therapeutic use of stem cells for organ repair or replacement.