Organs of the Thorax

Overview

The thorax contains key organs involved in respiration, immunity and endocrine function. This section introduces these structures and outlines their functional roles and anatomical relationships within the thoracic cavity.

Key Structures

Topics include the thymus gland, mammary glands, lungs, tracheobronchial tree and pleurae. Each article provides a clear explanation of structure, function and key anatomical details.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of thoracic organ anatomy is fundamental for assessing respiratory conditions, thoracic tumours, breast pathology and pleural disease. This section supports clinical reasoning and interpretation of imaging.

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Anatomical illustration of the thymus gland located in the superior mediastinum.

The Thymus Gland

The Breasts

Posterior view of the heart illustrating the venous drainage system.

The Heart

  • The Valves of the Heart
  • The Chambers of the Heart
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The Lungs

Diagram illustrating the trachea and bronchial divisions, highlighting the tracheobronchial tree anatomy.

The Tracheobronchial Tree

Diagram illustrating the parts of the parietal pleurae.

The Pleurae

Popular

Illustration showing the course of the ilioinguinal nerve within the lumbar plexus.
Encyclopaedia

Ilioinguinal Nerve

by Mihir Himanshu Majeethia

Bony landmarks and foramina of the posterior cranial fossa.
The Cranial Fossae

The Posterior Cranial Fossa

by Briony Adams

Illustration of the superficial muscles of the gluteal region, showing the gluteus maximus and medius partially removed.
Encyclopaedia

Gluteus Minimus

by Dr Oliver Jones