Anatomical Position, Directional Terms, and Body Cavities Flashcards
study of the structure of the body
Anatomy
study of the function of body parts; how they work to carry out life-sustaining activities
Physiology
body erect, feet slightly apart, palms facing forward with thumbs pointing away from body
Standard Anatomical Position
describe one body structure in relation to another body structure
-based on standard anatomical position
Directional Terms
refers to the leading position of the body (abdominal surface in humans/head in cats)
Anterior
the belly of a vertebrate animal
Ventral
refers to the position of the body (buttocks side in humans/tails in cats)
Posterior
the back of a vertebrate animal
Dorsal
above another structure
Superior
below another structure
Inferior
the side
Lateral
middle or near the medial plane
Medial
away from the point of attachment to the trunk
Distal
closer to the origin of a body part or the point of attachment of a limb to a body part
Proximal
between a more medial and more lateral structure
Intermediate
lying on the back facing downward
Supine
lying on the stomach facing upward
Prone
toward the head
Cranial/Cephallic
toward the feet
Caudal
on or near the surface
Superficial
through the surface
Deep
head, neck, and trunk
Axial
limbs (legs and arms)
Appendicular
designate specific areas within body diversions
Regional Terms
