Anatomy as well as physiology have several subspecialties. Can you identify these subspecialties and explain what they specifically study?
The subspecialties of Anatomy are as follows:
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EMBRYOLOGY: The study related to the formation and growth of an embryo and fetus
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DEVELOPMENT BIOLOGY: The study of the progressive changes and development that an organism undergoes throughout its lifespan
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CELL BIOLOGY: The study of the structure, function, and behavior of cells as fundamental units of living things
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HISTOLOGY: The microscopic study concerned with cells, tissues, and organs
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SURFACE ANATOMY: The study of the anatomic structures that can be identified on the external part of the body.
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GROSS ANATOMY: The study of anatomy that deals with the structures of the body that are at the visible or macroscopic level.
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SYSTEMATIC ANATOMY: The study of the human body according to the different organ systems.
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REGIONAL ANATOMY: The study of anatomy that deals with the different regions of the body and their relationship to one another.
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RADIOGRAPHIC ANATOMY: The study of anatomy that involves the use of radiographic imaging.
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PATHOLOGICAL ANATOMY: The study and examination of the cells and tissues to diagnose the cause and effect of diseases.
The subspecialties of Physiology are as follows:
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NEUROPHYSIOLOGY: The study of physiology that deals with the structure and functions of the nervous system.
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ENDOCRINOLOGY: The study of the hormones, glands, and organs that make up the endocrine system.
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CARDIOVASCULAR PHYSIOLOGY: The physiological study of the components of the cardiovascular system, including the heart, blood vessels, and blood.
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IMMUNOLOGY: The study that covers the body’s immune system, and its functions and disorders.
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RENAL PHYSIOLOGY: The study of the vital organs that comprise the renal system of the body.
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PATHOPHYSIOLOGY: The study that examines the abnormalities in the body, which are present due to a condition or disease.
Can you give your own example on how a structure of a body part is related to its function?
The presence of mucus in the nasal pathway enables it to function effectively by maintaining moisture and warmth that protect its linings. Mucus also traps substances like dirt and microorganisms to prevent them from getting into the lungs, which may cause irritation or breathing problems.