Human anatomy and physiology for medical writers

This branch covers human body structures and functions, organised by body system after the general anatomical vocabulary, with early development and spaceflight physiology at the end. Cellular signalling and transport, the gut microbiome, nutrition and exercise, and disease-specific accounts sit outside this branch.

• Describing the body: direction, cavities and levels of organization — anatomical location, body cavities, levels of organisation and homeostasis
• The skin, hair, nails and glands — skin functions, layers, colour and accessory organs
• The skeletal system — bones, cells, shapes, joints, growth, remodelling and cartilage
• The muscular system — muscle types, movement, contraction and nerve stimulation
• The nervous system — neurons, circuits, electrical and chemical signals, central and peripheral structures, reflexes and autonomic control
• The senses — sensory receptors, touch, pain, vision, hearing, balance, smell and taste
• The endocrine and reproductive systems — hormones, glands, feedback, reproductive organs and cycles
• Circulation and blood — heart structure and rhythm, vessels, blood functions and composition, blood-cell formation and groups
• The lymphatic and immune system — lymph vessels, lymphocytes, lymphatic organs and innate and adaptive immunity
• The respiratory system — airways, lungs, breathing and gas exchange
• The digestive system — the digestive tract, liver, pancreas and digestive enzymes
• The urinary system — kidneys, nephrons, urine formation and concentration, and urinary drainage
• Fertilization and early development — meiosis, gamete development, fusion, egg activation, the first week and early-life influences
• Spaceflight and human health — physiological changes, medical issues, mission planning and contingency training