FORAMEN MAGNUM Meaning and
Definition
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The foramen magnum is a Latin term that translates to "great hole" in English. It is a prominent anatomical feature located at the base of the skull, specifically in the occipital bone. It is the largest and most important opening in the cranial cavity, serving as a point of exit and entry for various structures that connect the brain to the spinal cord.
Anatomically, the foramen magnum is a large, oval-shaped aperture that facilitates the passage of several vital structures. It acts as the central opening through which the spinal cord passes and connects to the brain, allowing neural communication between the two. Additionally, the vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brain, traverse through the foramen magnum. Alongside these structures, several membranes, spinal fluid, and connective tissues traverse through this opening, ensuring proper functioning and protection of the central nervous system.
The foramen magnum plays a crucial role in maintaining the physiological integrity of the brain and spinal cord. Any abnormalities or alterations in its shape or size can result in significant pathological conditions or affect the normal functioning of important structures it accommodates. Conditions such as Chiari malformation, a congenital defect where the cerebellum herniates into the foramen magnum, can cause compression of the spinal cord and lead to various neurological symptoms.
In summary, the foramen magnum is a large aperture situated at the base of the skull, allowing the passage of critical structures, including the spinal cord and blood vessels, that enable communication and support between the brain and the rest of the body.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FORAMEN MAGNUM
- doramen magnum
- coramen magnum
- voramen magnum
- goramen magnum
- toramen magnum
- roramen magnum
- firamen magnum
- fkramen magnum
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- fpramen magnum
- f0ramen magnum
- f9ramen magnum
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- fodamen magnum
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- fotamen magnum
- fo5amen magnum
- fo4amen magnum
- forzmen magnum
Etymology of FORAMEN MAGNUM
The word "foramen magnum" is derived from Latin.
The term "foramen" comes from the Latin word "forare", which means "to bore" or "to pierce". "Magnum" also comes from Latin and means "great" or "large".
In anatomy, the "foramen magnum" refers to the large opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes. The term describes the size and location of this opening in relation to the rest of the skull.
Similar spelling words for FORAMEN MAGNUM
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