How Do You Spell ANNULUS URETHRALIS?

1. The term "annulus urethralis" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in male mammals. It is derived from Latin, where "annulus" means ring and "urethralis" refers to the urethra, the tube that transports urine and semen from the bladder and reproductive system, respectively, out of the body.

   In males, the annulus urethralis is a circular muscular band located at the distal end of the urethra, where it opens into the external environment. This ring-like structure is also known as the external urethral sphincter. Its main function is to control the voluntary release and retention of urine or semen.

   The annulus urethralis consists of smooth muscle fibers arranged in a circular pattern, allowing for contraction and relaxation. When it contracts, it compresses the urethral tube, preventing the flow of urine or semen. Alternatively, when it relaxes, it opens up the urethral opening, allowing for the passage of urine or semen.

   This anatomical structure plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary continence and regulating the ejaculatory process during sexual activity. Dysfunction of the annulus urethralis can lead to urinary incontinence, difficulty in controlling urination, or other related disorders.

   In summary, the annulus urethralis is a circular muscle located at the distal end of the male urethra, functioning as a sphincter to control the passage of urine and semen.

2. A thickening of the middle muscular coat of the bladder around the urethral opening, forming the sphincter vesicae muscle.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ANNULUS URETHRALIS

The word "annulus urethralis" is composed of two Latin terms:

1. "Annulus": This term means "ring" or "circular band" in Latin. It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root word *h₂en-, meaning "to encircle" or "to wind". The term "annulus" has been used in various scientific fields to describe structures that are circular or ring-like.

2. "Urethralis": This term refers to the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the external opening of the body. The word "urethralis" is derived from the Latin term "urethra", which is borrowed from the Greek word "ourethra", meaning "the passage of urine".