Intro to Medical Term Flashcards
terms derived from the name of a person or place. NOT BUILT FROM WORD PART
eponyms
terms formed from the first letters of a phrase that can be spoken as a whole word and usually contains a vowel. NOT BUILT FROM WORD PART
acronym
Word parts of Greek and Latin origin placed together to form terms that can be translated literally to find their meanings
term built from word parts
basic unit of all living things. The human body is composed of trillions of cells, which vary in size and shape according to function.
cell
forms boundary of the cell
cell membrane
gel-like fluid inside cell
cytoplasm
largest structure within the cell, usually spherical and centrally located. It contains chromosomes for cellular reproduction and is the control center for cellular activity.
nucleus
located in the nucleus of the cell. There are 46 chromosomes in all normal human cells, with the exception of mature sex cells, which have 23.
chromosomes
regions within the chromosome. Each chromosome has several thousand genes that determine hereditary characteristics.
genes
comprises each gene; is a genetic material that regulates the activities of the cell. DNA abbreviates deoxyribonucleic acid.
DNA
group of similar cells that performs a specific function
tissue
composed of cells that have a special ability to contract, usually producing movement
muscle tissue
similarly specialized cells united in the performance of a particular function; found in the nerves, spinal cord, and brain. It is responsible for coordinating and controlling body activities.
nervous tissue
connects, supports, penetrates, and encases various body structures. Adipose (fat), osseous (bone) tissues, and blood are types of connective tissue. Fibrous tissue is a type of connective tissue that provides strength and stability such as in ligaments and tendons.
connective tissue
the major covering of the external surface of the body; forms membranes that line body cavities and organs; and is the major tissue in glands. Glandular tissue is designed to secrete substances such as digestive enzymes.
epithelial tissue
two or more types of tissues that together perform special body functions. For example, the skin is an organ composed of epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.
organ
large internal organs contained in the body cavities, especially in the abdominal cavity
viscera
group of organs that work together to perform complex body functions. For example, the cardiovascular system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. Its function is to transport nutrients and oxygen to the cells and remove carbon dioxide and other waste products
system
Composed of skin, nails, and glands. Forms a protective covering for the body, regulates body temperature, and helps manufacture vitamin D.
integumentary system
Composed of nose, pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), bronchial tubes, and lungs. Performs respiration, which provides for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide within the body.
respiratory system
Composed of kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Removes waste material (urine) from the body, regulates fluid volume, and maintains electrolyte concentration.
urinary system
Female reproductive system is composed of ovaries, uterine tubes, uterus, vagina, and mammary glands. Male reproductive system is composed of testes, urethra, penis, prostate gland, and associated tubes. Responsible for heredity and reproduction.
reproductive system
Composed of the heart and blood vessels. Pumps and transports blood throughout the body.
cardiovascular system
Composed of a network of vessels, ducts, nodes, and organs. Provides for defense against infection and drainage of extracellular fluid.
lymphatic/immune system