Chapter 1 - Key Terms

Anatomic Nomenclature

The international system of terms for anatomic structures.

Anatomic Position

Erect position with arms at sides and palms and toes directed forward, and with eyes looking forwardwith feet parallel to each other.

Anterior

Front of area.

Posterior

Back of area.

Superior

A structure that faces toward the head and away from the feet.

Inferior

A structure that faces away from the head and toward the feet. It is the opposite of superior.

Superficial

A structure located toward the surface of the body.

Deep

A structure located inward, away from the body surface.

Internal

The inner side of the wall of a hollow structure.

External

The outer side of the wall of a hollow structure.

Ispilateral

A structure on the same side of the body.

Contralateral

A structure on the opposite side of the body. This term is used to describe structures that are located on opposite sides of a reference point.

Apex (apices)

Tip, or the pointed end of a conical structure.

Midsagittal/Median Plane

CENTERED at the midline of the body, dividing it into equal right and left halves.

Sagittal Plane

In the same lengthwise manner, this plane divides the body parallel or equidistant to the midsagittal plane.

Coronal/Frontal Plane

Divides the body at any level vertically into anterior and posterior parts.

Transverse/Axial Plane

Divides the body at any level horizontally into superior and inferior parts. This is ALWAYS perpendicular to the midsagittal plane.

Median

The structure at median or midsagittal plane.

Medial

Area closer to the midsagittal plane.

Mesial

Area closer to midsagittal/median plane, particularly in reference to teeth in the mouth.

Lateral

A structure farther from the midsagittal/median plane of the body as compared to another structure. It is used to describe positioning on the outer side of the body or facing away from the midline.

Proximal

A structure closer to the midsagittal/median plane.

Distal

A structure farther from the midsagittal/median plane.

Dissection

Separate whole body into region through surgical means.

Supine

Position lying on the back, with face upward.

Prone

Body position lying on the front (face down).

Macroscopic Anatomy

The study of organs and their structures as a whole, which are easily visible to the unaided eye.

Microscopic Anatomy

The study of the structure of organs, tissue types, and cells using a microscope.