Anatómia

Anatómia is the branch of biology that studies the structure of living organisms. It investigates the form, relationships, and organization of parts from the macro to the microscopic level. In humans, anatomy is commonly divided into gross (macroscopic) anatomy, histology (microanatomy), embryology, and comparative anatomy. Gross anatomy examines organs and systems visible without a microscope; histology studies tissues at the cellular level; embryology concerns development from fertilization through fetal stages. Comparative anatomy compares anatomical features across species to understand function and evolutionary relationships.

Anatómia relies on methods such as dissection, imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray, ultrasound), endoscopy, and histological preparation. Standardized nomenclature, such as Terminologia Anatomica, supports precise communication among scientists and clinicians.

Historically, anatomy has ancient roots in early civilizations. Anatomists documented observations through dissection, with Galen and Aristotelian scholars contributing foundational ideas; the 16th-century Vesalius published detailed human anatomy drawings that transformed the discipline. Modern anatomy integrates imaging and 3D digital atlases to illustrate structure and variation.

In medicine, anatomical knowledge underpins diagnosis, surgical planning, radiology, and physical therapy. In education, anatomy is a core subject for health professionals and is increasingly taught with interactive models and virtual dissection tools.

Beyond humans, anatomy also includes veterinary and plant anatomy, and comparative anatomy across taxa. The field intersects with physiology, development, and evolutionary biology, contributing to understanding form, function, and health.