NHPC GENERAL MEDICINE PREPARATION MATERIALS

1. Introduction

The digestive system is responsible for the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food, absorption of nutrients, and elimination of waste.

Components: Oral cavity, Pharynx, Esophagus, Stomach, Small intestine,  Large intestine, Accessory organs (Salivary glands, Liver, Gallbladder,  Pancreas)

Functions:

Ingestion – taking in food

Propulsion – swallowing and peristalsis

1. Introduction

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that returns interstitial fluid to blood, absorbs dietary fats, and participates in immune defense.

Functions:

Fluid balance: Returns 2–3 L interstitial fluid/day to circulation

Fat absorption: Via lacteals in small intestine

Immune surveillance: Filters pathogens via lymph nodes and spleen

1. Introduction

The endocrine system consists of glands that secrete hormones directly into the blood, regulating growth, metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis.

Major glands: Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Thyroid, Parathyroid, Adrenal, Pancreas, Pineal, Gonads.

Hormone action: Endocrine (blood), Paracrine (local), Autocrine (self)

2. Hypothalamus and Pituitary

2.1 Hypothalamus Anatomy

1. Heart Anatomy – In-Depth

1.1 External Anatomy

• Located in the middle mediastinum, apex pointing to 5th intercostal space midclavicular line

• Surfaces:

  • Sternocostal: RA & RV predominantly

  • Diaphragmatic: LV and some RV