Introduction to anatomy

Anatomy

        The word anatomy is derived from the Greek word Ana (Apart) and tomy (Cut). It is the branch of biological science, which deals with the structure and form of organisms. It includes the study of shape, weight, color, texture, and relative position of various parts and organs of the organisms when in a state of normal health.

Benefits of anatomy 

1. It gives an idea about the form, shape, structure, and relative position of various organs and tissues.
2. It aids in understanding the function of various parts, their correlation and coordination, and their physical and functional relationship. 
3. When normal shape, structure, and function are known, a deviation from this normal can be recognized with great ease. Thus it helps in the agnosis of a diseased state. 
4. It provides knowledge that helps in devising the ways and means for the collection of samples required for a definite diagnosis.
5. It facilitates the administration of drugs efficiently.
6. A good grasp of anatomy gives much help and confidence to a surgeon. 

Divisions of anatomy

1. Gross (Macro) anatomy

    It is the study of structures that can be dissected and seen with the naked eye.

2. Histology (Micro) anatomy

   The study of minute structures too small to be seen without a microscope.

3. Cytology (Ultrastructural anatomy)

It is the study of minute structures in even greater detail, with the help of an electron microscope.

4. Applied anatomy

Applied anatomy is the practical application of anatomical knowledge for diagnosis and treatment.

5. Morbid anatomy (Pathology)

The study of diseased structures of an organism.

6. Teratology

The study of abnormal development of an individual.

7. Developmental anatomy

The study of the development from the zygote to adult.

8. Embryology

The study of structures from fertilized egg to birth.

9. Comparative anatomy

The study of comparison of the structures of different animals.

10. Morphological / Philosophical anatomy

It is the study of generalization made on an outer form and inner structure.

11. Phylogeny

It is the study of the evolutionary history of a species.

12. Special anatomy

The study of the structure and form of a single type or specie.