Axis (C2) vs Liver
| Property | Axis (C2) | Liver |
|---|---|---|
| Latin Name | Axis | Hepar |
| Type | Bone | Organ |
| Body System | Skeletal | Digestive |
| Body Region | Spine | Abdomen |
| Function | The second cervical vertebra that provides a pivot point for rotation of the head. The dens (odontoid process) projects superiorly and acts as the axis around which the atlas rotates. | The largest internal organ, performing over 500 metabolic functions including bile production, detoxification, protein synthesis (albumin, clotting factors), glycogen storage, and drug metabolism. |
| Clinical Significance | Odontoid fractures are common cervical spine injuries, especially in elderly patients. Hangman's fracture involves bilateral pars interarticularis fractures of C2. Atlantoaxial instability occurs in rheumatoid arthritis and Down syndrome. | Cirrhosis results from chronic liver disease (alcohol, hepatitis). Hepatocellular carcinoma is a primary liver cancer. Hepatitis B and C are major global health concerns. Liver transplantation is performed for end-stage … |
| FMA ID | 12520 | 7197 |
Full structure pages
Axis (C2)
Axis
The second cervical vertebra, the axis provides the pivot around which the head rotates. Its defining feature is the dens, or odontoid process, a tooth-like projection that extends superiorly from the body to articulate with …