Body Systems, Functions, and Organs

Need multiple seats for your university or lab? Get a quote
The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Medical Terminology in the Histology Laboratory. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Medical Terminology in the Histology Laboratory (online CE course)
Body Systems, Functions, and Organs

The body systems, their primary functions, and some representative organs included in each system are listed below:

Body System Primary FunctionOrgans Included
RespiratoryBreathing
  • Lungs
  • Trachea
Cardiovascular/Circulatory Blood circulation
  • Heart
  • Arteries
  • Veins
  • Blood
DigestiveProcessing food
  • Mouth
  • Pharynx
  • Esophagus
  • Stomach
  • Intestines
  • Accessory organs: liver, gallbladder, abdomen, appendix
EndocrineHormone productionA number of glands throughout the body, including but not limited to:
  • Thyroid
  • Pituitary
  • Adrenal glands
UrinaryWaste elimination
  • Kidneys
  • Bladder
Reproductive Reproduction
  • Uterus
  • Ovaries
  • Fallopian tubes
Nervous/SensoryCommunication between and coordination of all the body systemsNervous:
  • Brain
  • Nerves
Sensory:
  • Eyes
  • Ears
    IntegumentaryProtects against damage
    • Skin
    • Hair
    • Nails
      Muscular/SkeletalProvides form, support, stability, and movement to the body
      • Muscles
      • Bones
      Hematopoietic/LymphaticBlood production, maintenance of fluid balance, and defense against disease
      • Bone marrow
      • Spleen
      • Tonsils
      • Lymph fluid, nodes, ducts, vessels