INTRODUCTION
Histology is the study of tissue structure, extending from the level of the individual
cell, through organs to organ systems. Histology is obviously related to Cell Biology
(Cytology) and to Anatomy; it also forms the structural basis for understanding
Function (Physiology) and is the preparation for the study of abnormal structure and
function (Pathology). Pathophysiological (clinical) examples will be used to illustrate
aspects of functions and their significance.
The principal aim of the course is to provide a knowledge of tissue structure which is
sufficient for the understanding of Physiology.
Tissues may be regarded as aggregations of cells (of one, or more usually, several
types) which serve a particular function or set of functions.
From this definition it will be seen that the concepts of structure and function are
essential to the study of Histology