Anatomical Divisions of the Human Body

The human body is anatomically categorized into two primary regions, which serve as reference points for structural and functional analysis.

1. Axial Body Region

The axial region consists of structures that align with the central axis of the body, providing support and protection to vital organs. It includes the following:

• Head (Cephalic Region): Encompasses the skull and facial structures, housing the brain and sensory organs.
• Neck (Cervical Region): Connects the head to the torso and contains structures essential for circulation, respiration, and nerve transmission.
• Thorax (Chest Region): Encloses vital organs such as the heart and lungs within the ribcage.
• Abdomen: Contains the digestive organs, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and kidneys.
• Pelvis: Provides structural support and houses the reproductive organs, urinary bladder, and portions of the intestines.

2. Appendicular Body Region

The appendicular region includes structures extending from the axial body, primarily responsible for movement and interaction with the environment. It consists of:

• Upper Extremities (Upper Limbs): Includes the shoulders, arms, forearms, wrists, and hands, facilitating dexterity and fine motor skills.
• Lower Extremities (Lower Limbs): Includes the hips, thighs, legs, ankles, and feet, playing a crucial role in mobility and weight-bearing functions.

Abdominal Subdivisions

To aid in medical and anatomical reference, the abdominal region is systematically divided into smaller sections for precise localization of structures and pathologies.

• Nine-Region Method: This detailed classification divides the abdomen into nine regions, allowing for accurate anatomical and clinical assessment:
1. Right Hypochondriac Region – Contains the liver and gallbladder.
2. Epigastric Region – Houses the stomach and pancreas.
3. Left Hypochondriac Region – Includes the spleen and portions of the stomach.
4. Right Lumbar Region – Contains parts of the intestines and kidneys.
5. Umbilical Region – Encompasses the small intestine and transverse colon.
6. Left Lumbar Region – Houses parts of the intestines and kidneys.
7. Right Iliac (Inguinal) Region – Contains the cecum and appendix.
8. Hypogastric (Pubic) Region – Includes the bladder and reproductive organs.
9. Left Iliac (Inguinal) Region – Houses parts of the sigmoid colon.
• Four-Quadrant Method: A simpler approach commonly used in clinical practice divides the abdomen into four quadrants:

• Right Upper Quadrant (RUQ) – Includes the liver, gallbladder, and part of the stomach.
• Left Upper Quadrant (LUQ) – Contains the stomach, spleen, and pancreas.
• Right Lower Quadrant (RLQ) – Houses the appendix and parts of the intestines.
• Left Lower Quadrant (LLQ) – Includes parts of the intestines and reproductive organs.

These anatomical classifications provide a systematic framework for medical diagnosis, surgical procedures, and anatomical studies.

 

Abdominal Subdivisions