distális

Distal (distális) is an anatomical directional term that denotes a part of a structure that is farther from a specified point of reference, usually the trunk or the point of attachment of a limb. It is the opposite of proximal. The term originates from Latin distalis, from distare, to stand apart.

In human anatomy, distal describes positions along the limbs and in tubular structures. For example, the distal phalanges are the bones at the tips of the fingers and toes; the distal radius and ulna are the portions nearer the wrist, while the proximal ones are near the elbow. Similarly, the distal femur sits closer to the knee, compared with the proximal femur near the hip. Distal and proximal are relative; their exact meaning depends on the reference point chosen.

In dentistry, distal refers to surfaces of teeth that face away from the midline of the face. The mesial surface faces toward the midline; the distal surface faces away from it.

In botany and zoology, distal can describe parts farther from the point of attachment to the organism's axis. For example, in a plant stem, the distal end is farther from the attachment to the main trunk or root.

Distal is often used in contrast with proximal, medial, lateral, and other directional terms to describe location, progression, or pathology, such as distal erosion, distal fractures, or distal arterial segments.