Introduction

• Anatomy is the study of the structures of organisms.
• Human anatomy is the study of structures in the body.
• This includes both large structures and small ones, that can only be seen under a microscope.
• It is formed from the greek words:
  • "ana" which means "up"
  • "temnein" which means "to cut"

Areas of specialization

Anatomy is divided into several areas:

• Gross anatomy
  • This is the study of large structures, that don't need magnification.
  • Gross anatomy is also referred to as "macroscopic anatomy".
• Microscopic anatomy
  • This is the study of small structures, usually with the help of a microscope.
  • It is further divided into:
    • Histology: the study of tissues
    • Cytology: the study of cells
  • Confusingly, "histology" can also be used to refer to microscopic anatomy as a whole.
  • Microscopic anatomy is also called "microanatomy".

Regional and systemic anatomy

• Regional anatomy:
  • The study of a specific region of the body, and the relations between structures in that region.
  • For example, how muscles, vessels and nerves work together to produce movement.
  • It is also called "topographic anatomy".
• Systemic anatomy
  • Systemic anatomy is the study of a specific organ system.
  • For example, a system-wise study of the muscular system would include all the skeletal muscles of the body.