Subsets of Anatomy
The study of the large parts of an animal body – any animal body – that can be seen with the unaided eye.
Gross Anatomy
These mean bone; joints
Skeletal System
Means heart (muscle), vessel, blood vessels
Cardiovascular System
Stand up with your hands to your side
Turn your palms so they are facing forward
Anatomical Position
Divides the body or organ into anterior or posterior portions – front and back
Frontal Plane
The study of the life cycle of the individual, from fertilized egg through adulthood, aging, and death.
Developmental Anatomy
Means muscle, striated muscle
Muscular System
Means lung, windpipe
Respiratory System
Nearer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body
Proximal
Divides the body or organ lengthwise into right and left sections. If the vertical plane runs exactly down the middle of the body, it is referred to as the midsagittal plane.
Sagittal Plane
The study of the similarities and differences among the anatomical structures of different species, including extinct species. Information from comparative anatomy can help scientists understand the human body’s structures and processes.
Comparative Anatomy
Means skin
Integumentary System
Means stomach, intestine, teeth, liver
Digestive System
Above or higher than another part
Superior
Divides the body or organ horizontally, into superior and inferior portions – top and bottom.
Transverse Plane
The study of different tissue types and the cells that comprise them. These anatomists use a variety of microscopes to study the cells and tissues that make up the body.
Histologic Anatomy
Means nerve
Nervous system
Means kidney, urinary
Urinary System
Nearer to the surface of the body
Superficial
Runs right down the center (axis) and consists of everything except the limbs – meaning the head, neck, thorax (chest and back), abdomen, and pelvis
Axial
Means gland, steroid
Endocrine System
Means lymph, white, inflammation
Lymphatic System
On the side or toward the side of the body
Lateral
Consists of appendages, otherwise known as upper and lower extremities – arms and legs
Appendicular