9 Skin Introduction The skin is the largest organ in the body, both in weight and surface area. It shows significant regional variation, with the thickest skin being found on…

1 Cell structure and function Introduction to the Cell Histology is the study of normal cells and tissues, mainly using microscopes. This book describes the histology of normal human tissues,…

21 Special sense organs Introduction The organs of special sense are sophisticated sensory structures in which the specific neural receptors are incorporated in a non-neural structure which enhances and refines…

16 Urinary system Introduction The principal function of the urinary system is the maintenance of water, electrolyte and acid-base homeostasis, which requires that any input into the system is balanced…

6 Muscle Introduction Although all cells are capable of some sort of movement, the dominant function of several cell types is to generate force through contraction. In these specialised contractile…

3 Blood, haematopoiesis and bone marrow Introduction Blood is a suspension of cells in fluid. It is circulated around the body by the heart and, as a result of this…

10 Skeletal tissues Introduction The skeletal system is formed from highly specialised types of supporting/connective tissue. The tissues are made up of collagen and acellular matrix, as well as the…

8 Circulatory system Introduction The circulatory system mediates continuous movement of all body fluids, its principal functions being the transport of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues as well as…

11 Immune system Introduction All living tissues are subject to the constant threat of invasion by disease-producing foreign agents and microorganisms (pathogens) i.e. bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and multicellular parasites…

4 Supporting/connective tissues Introduction Supporting/connective tissue is the term applied to tissues which provide general structure, mechanical strength, space filling (sculpting body shape), and physical and metabolic support for more…