MASTOID FOSSA Meaning and
Definition
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The mastoid fossa is an anatomical feature located in the temporal bone of the skull. It is a depression or hollow area situated behind the external auditory canal, specifically behind the mastoid process.
The temporal bone is divided into several regions, and the mastoid fossa forms part of the petrous portion, which is the bony region surrounding the internal ear structures. The mastoid process, to which the mastoid fossa is posteriorly connected, is a bony projection just behind the ear, and it contains air cells known as mastoid cells.
The mastoid fossa itself is a concave indentation that houses the mastoid air cells. These air cells are connected to the middle ear and help to regulate pressure and humidity within the ear. Additionally, the mastoid fossa acts as an attachment site for various muscles, tendons, and ligaments involved in head and neck movements.
From a clinical perspective, the mastoid fossa is an important landmark for healthcare professionals. It is often examined during physical examinations, allowing medical practitioners to assess potential abnormalities such as swelling, tenderness, or inflammation that may indicate an infection or other pathological conditions.
In summary, the mastoid fossa is a depression located behind the external auditory canal and connected to the mastoid process. It contains the mastoid air cells and serves as an attachment site for muscles. Its examination provides valuable diagnostic information for healthcare professionals.
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Fossa mastoidea, a depression on the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, behind the supermeatal spine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MASTOID FOSSA
- mastoid fosqa
- mastoid fosra
- mastoid fossi
- mastoid fosse
- mastoid fossc
- mastwoidfossa
- mastooidfossa
- m astoid fossa
- ma stoid fossa
- mas toid fossa
- mast oid fossa
- masto id fossa
- mastoi d fossa
- mastoid f ossa
- mastoid fo ssa
- mastoid fos sa
- mastoid foss a
Etymology of MASTOID FOSSA
The word "mastoid" comes from the Greek words "mastos", meaning "breast" or "breast-like", and "oidēs", meaning "resembling" or "like". "Fossa", on the other hand, is a Latin word meaning "ditch" or "trench".
In the context of anatomy, the term "mastoid fossa" refers to a depression or cavity located within the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, behind the ear. The name "mastoid fossa" describes its shape, as it somewhat resembles a breast-like or rounded trench.
Similar spelling words for MASTOID FOSSA
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