SELLA TURCICA Meaning and
Definition
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Sella Turcica refers to a bony structure located at the base or floor of the human skull, specifically within the sphenoid bone. The name "Sella Turcica" translates to "Turkish saddle" in Latin, as it bears resemblance to a saddle. This distinct saddle-shaped depression houses and protects the pituitary gland which is a small pea-sized gland responsible for regulating various hormonal functions in the body.
The Sella Turcica is composed of two main parts: the anteroinferior portion which is concave in shape and the posteroinferior portion which is convex. The two portions are separated by a bony ridge called the tuberculum sellae. At the posterior margin of the Sella Turcica, there is another ridge known as the dorsum sellae.
This anatomical structure plays a crucial role in both the stability and protection of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is vital for the regulation and secretion of hormones that control growth, metabolism, reproduction, and other physiological processes.
In medical imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, the Sella Turcica can be visualized and measured to help diagnose various disorders and abnormalities affecting the pituitary gland. These may include pituitary tumors, pituitary hypoplasia, pituitary apoplexy, or other conditions that can impact hormonal balance and bodily functions.
Understanding the structure and function of the Sella Turcica is critical for healthcare professionals in adequately assessing and treating pituitary-related disorders.
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A saddle-like prominence on the upper surface of the sphenoid bone, situated in the middle cranial fossa and dividing it into two halves. The posterior part, dorsum sellae is the highest; in front of this is the hypophyseal (pituitary) fossa, and in front of that the tuberculum sellae or pommel of the saddle (olivary eminence).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SELLA TURCICA
- aella turcica
- zella turcica
- xella turcica
- della turcica
- eella turcica
- wella turcica
- swlla turcica
- sslla turcica
- sdlla turcica
- srlla turcica
- s4lla turcica
- s3lla turcica
- sekla turcica
- sepla turcica
- seola turcica
- selka turcica
- selpa turcica
- seloa turcica
- sellz turcica
- sells turcica
Etymology of SELLA TURCICA
The term "Sella Turcica" has a Latin origin. In Latin, "sella" means "saddle", and "turcica" means "Turkish". This term was coined in the 16th century by anatomist Vesalius, who noticed that the appearance of the structure resembled a saddle often used by Turks. This anatomical feature refers to a depression or hollow in the sphenoid bone at the base of the skull, and it houses the pituitary gland.
Similar spelling words for SELLA TURCICA
- Sela turcica,
- Sally Dworsky.
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