Head
Head
The head (/hɛd/; from Old English heafod) is the part of an organism which usually includes the brain, eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, each of which aid in various sensory functions such as sight, hearing, smell, and taste, respectively.[1] Some very simple animals may not have a head, but many bilaterally symmetrical forms do, regardless of size.
Structure
The head is composed of the skull, which protects the brain from injury. The skull is made up of several bones that are connected by sutures. The face is the front part of the head that features three of the head's sense-organs; the eyes, nose, and mouth. The scalp is the anatomical area bordered by the face anteriorly and the neck posteriorly.
Function
The head houses the brain, a large organ that controls all of the body's functions. The brain is protected by the skull and a system of membranes known as meninges. The head also contains the mouth, which is the beginning of the digestive system, and includes the teeth and tongue. The nose and sinuses are part of the respiratory system, and the ears are involved in the auditory system and balance.
Clinical significance
Diseases of the head can affect the brain and the sense organs. These include various forms of cancer, trauma, and infectious diseases. The head is also a common site for the development of skin conditions, including acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
See also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Head
- Wikipedia's article - Head
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