PREOCCIPITAL NOTCH Meaning and
Definition
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The preoccipital notch is a anatomical feature located at the back of the skull. It can be described as a concave depression or groove that is found just above the occipital foramen, which is the large opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord exits.
This notch forms as a result of the fusion of the bones at the back of the skull during fetal development. It is also known as the lambda on the skull's external surface. The shape and size of the preoccipital notch can vary between individuals, as it is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
The preoccipital notch is an important landmark for anatomical and anthropological studies. It is used to determine the age and sex of ancient human remains, as well as for identifying species and assessing evolutionary characteristics. By examining the features and dimensions of the preoccipital notch, experts can gain insights into the skull's overall structure, the position of muscles and ligaments, and the overall health or presence of pathologies.
In conclusion, the preoccipital notch is a distinct feature found on the posterior aspect of the skull, just above the occipital foramen.
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An indentation in the ventrolateral border of the temporal lobe of the cerebral hemisphere, near the occipital pole.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PREOCCIPITAL NOTCH
Etymology of PREOCCIPITAL NOTCH
The etymology of the word "preoccipital notch" can be understood by breaking it down into its components:
- "Pre-" is a prefix derived from Latin meaning "before" or "in front of".
- "Occipital" is an adjective derived from the Latin word "occiput", which refers to the back part of the head or the skull.
- "Notch", in this context, refers to a small cut, indentation, or groove.
Therefore, the etymology of the term "preoccipital notch" suggests that it is a term used to describe a small cut or indentation situated before or in front of the occipital region of the skull.
