What field studies the body organ-systems collectively?

Systemic physiology is the field that studies the body organ-systems collectively. It focuses on how different organ systems interact and function together to maintain homeostasis and support the overall functioning of the organism. This includes understanding processes such as circulation, respiration, digestion, and the coordination of these systems to respond to internal and external changes.

In systemic physiology, researchers and healthcare professionals explore not only individual organ systems but also how they work in concert. For example, the cardiovascular system must work closely with the respiratory system to ensure that oxygenated blood is delivered throughout the body efficiently. By studying these interactions, systemic physiology provides insights vital for understanding health, disease, and the physiological responses of the body as a whole.

The other fields listed—anatomical pathology, immunology, and neurobiology—each have a more focused scope. Anatomical pathology is primarily concerned with the study of diseases and their effects on tissues and organs, while immunology focuses on the immune system and its responses. Neurobiology is dedicated to understanding the nervous system's structure and function. While these areas are essential to the understanding of human health and disease, they do not encompass the broader study of organ-systems collectively as systemic physiology does.