The Hierarchy of Complexity

In descending order:

1.Organism is composed of organ systems 2.Organ systems composed of organs

3.Organs composed of tissues

4.Tissues composed of cells

5.Cells composed of organelles

6.Organelles composed of molecules

7.Molecules composed of atoms

Anatomy

The Study of Form

Examining structure of the human body

Comparative anatomy

–Study of more than one species in order to examine structural similarities and differences, and analyze evolutionary trends

Cadaver dissection

–Cutting & separation of tissues to reveal their relationships

Surface Anatomy:

study of form and markings of body surface, often explored without any "cutting, by visualization or palpation.

Gross Anatomy: Structure seen by the unaided, naked eye

System approach

 (Systemic Anatomy)

Study of body systems

•e.g. all of blood vessels, or all of muscles, etc at once.

Regional approach

(Regional Anatomy)

Study of all anatomical structures of a specific region

•e.g. thorax, or head and neck all studied together.