Human anatomy studies the shape and structure of the human body . It is a science closely related to physiology , since, in order to understand the function of a structure, it is fundamental to understand its organization.

Human anatomy can be called macroscopic, when structures are observed without the need for magnification objects, or microscopic, when a microscope is used for better visualization. According to the study method, anatomy can be systemic, topographic, radiological, surface, sectional or compared.

Abstract about anatomy

• It is the science that studies the structure and shape of the human body and its parts.
• Its study has been carried out since the dawn of humanity.
• Dissection is an important technique of this science and, for a long time, it was prohibited.
• According to the method of observation, anatomy is divided into microscopic or macroscopic.
• According to the study method, anatomy can be systemic, topographic, radiological, surface, sectional or compared.
• Human anatomy and physiology are two sciences that go hand in hand.
• The anatomical position is the default position adopted in anatomical descriptions.

Divisions of human anatomy

The human anatomy can be divided using as a criterion the method of observation or the method of study.

Division of human anatomy by method of observation

The observation method takes into account the way a structure is observed . According to this method, the anatomy is divided into:

• Macroscopic: the one in which you observe a body structure with the naked eye, without the need for devices to enlarge it.
• Microscopic: one in which the observed structures are small, and it is necessary to use a microscope to observe them.

Division of human anatomy by method of study

The study method takes into account the way the human body is studied . In relation to this method, the anatomy can be divided into:

• Systemic ( or descriptive ): divides the body into organ systems.
• Topographic ( or regional ): divides the body into segments or regions.
• Radiological: studies the human body based on the use of images.
• Surface: focuses on the study of existing reliefs and depressions on the surface of the body.
• Sectional: analyzes the serial cuts.
• Compared: as the name suggests, it compares the human organism with that of other animals.

Human anatomy and physiology

• Human anatomy : science devoted to the study of the structure and form of the human organism.
• Human physiology: science that studies the functions of the organism and each of its parts.

Separating the study of anatomy from the study of physiology is not always an easy task, as knowing its structure is fundamental to understanding how the organism works. Therefore, these two areas are completely interrelated .

What is anatomical position?

The anatomical position is a standard position adopted in anatomical descriptions , thus facilitating the description of the structures of our organism all over the world. An organism in anatomical position is standing (orthostatic position), face facing forward and looking towards the horizon, lower limbs together, upper limbs extended and palms facing forward.

The body can be divided taking into account the following directions:

• upper: upper body;
• bottom: lower body;
• anterior: front of the body;
• posterior: back of the body;
• cephalic: region closest to the head;
• medial: region closer to the midline of the body;
• lateral: region closer to the side of the body and further away from the midline;
• proximal: region close to the root of the limb;
• distal: region farthest from the root of the limb.

In addition to the directions, we cannot fail to mention the anatomical planes , used to divide the body. These plans are:

• Midsagittal: divides the body into halves: right and left.
• Sagittal: any plane parallel to the midsagittal that divides the body into right and left portions.
• Horizontal or transverse: divides the body into upper and lower portions.
• Frontal or coronal: divides the body into anterior and posterior portions.

The systems of the human body: main organs and functions

Integumentary system

The integumentary system is made up of the skin and its appendages . It works by preventing the entry of micro-organisms into our body, preventing excessive water loss, protecting against ultraviolet radiation, promoting sensory perception, among other functions.

Skeletal system

The skeletal system is made up of bones, cartilage and ligaments . It acts, among other functions, assisting in the movement of the body, protecting internal organs, storing mineral salts and producing blood cells.

Muscular system

The muscular system is formed by muscles and acts, among other functions, in maintaining posture and performing movements.

Cardiovascular system

The cardiovascular system is formed by the heart and blood vessels and acts by ensuring the distribution of blood to various parts of the body.

Lymphatic system

Lymphatic system is formed by lymphatic vessels and lymphoid organs . It is an important drainage system concerned with removing excess fluid, proteins, and other materials from tissue spaces.

nervous system

The nervous system can be divided into central and peripheral , the first consisting of the brain and spinal cord and the second consisting of nerves, nerve endings and ganglia. The nervous system acts in the coordination and integration of organic systems. It is thanks to him that we are able to perceive the environment, interpret this information and generate responses.

Endocrine system

The endocrine system is formed by all the endocrine glands in our body, that is, glands that secrete hormones. It releases hormones related to different functions, ranging from regulating growth and development to reproduction.

digestive system

The digestive system consists of the mouth, pharynx , esophagus , stomach , small intestine , large intestine and accessory glands . Its main function is to ensure the absorption of nutrients present in the food we consume.

respiratory system

The respiratory system consists of the nose, pharynx, larynx , trachea , bronchi , bronchioles, alveoli and lungs . It ensures that oxygen reaches our lungs, where it is transferred to the blood, and promotes the elimination of carbon dioxide from the body.

urinary system

The urinary system is made up of the kidneys , ureters, bladder and urethra . It is responsible for filtering the blood and producing urine, a process that ensures the removal of toxic substances that are in excess in our body.

Male reproductive system

The male reproductive system is formed by testes , epididymis, vas deferens, urethra, penis and some glands . This system ensures the production of sperm and their transfer to the female reproductive system.

Female reproductive system

The female reproductive system is made up of the ovaries , fallopian tube, uterus, vagina and vulva . It is responsible for producing the oocytes, receiving the sperm during copulation and ensuring the development of a new being in formation.