MASTOID PORTION Meaning and
Definition
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The mastoid portion refers to a specific part of the temporal bone located in the skull. It is found behind the ear and is identified as a prominent bulge, resembling a small hill or a rounded projection. The term "mastoid" originates from the Greek word "mastoeidḗs," meaning breast-like, as this portion of the bone resembles the shape of a breast when viewed from the front.
Anatomically, the mastoid portion consists of a network of interconnected air cells filled with mastoid air, thereby providing a lightweight structure. It is primarily responsible for providing attachment surfaces for various muscles, including those involved in moving the head and neck. Moreover, it functions as a bony prominence for stabilizing and supporting the surrounding structures.
The mastoid portion also plays a vital role in the auditory system. It houses the mastoid process, a bony projection that serves as a vital anchoring point for the muscles involved in hearing, such as the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Additionally, it contains the mastoid sinus, a cavity lined with mucous membrane that helps drain excess fluid from the ear, regulating pressure and preventing infections.
Understanding the mastoid portion's structure and function is crucial in various medical fields, including otolaryngology, neurosurgery, and dentistry. Pathological conditions in this region, such as mastoiditis (inflammation of the mastoid air cells), can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Therefore, accurate knowledge of the mastoid portion aids in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions that may affect this area.
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The lower posterior portion of the temporal bone; it is usually fused at birth with the petrous portion of the same bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MASTOID PORTION
- nastoid portion
- kastoid portion
- jastoid portion
- mzstoid portion
- msstoid portion
- mwstoid portion
- mqstoid portion
- maatoid portion
- maztoid portion
- maxtoid portion
- madtoid portion
- maetoid portion
- mawtoid portion
- masroid portion
- masfoid portion
- masgoid portion
- masyoid portion
- mas6oid portion
- mas5oid portion
- mastiid portion
Etymology of MASTOID PORTION
The word "mastoid" can be traced back to its Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "mastoeidḗs", which consists of two elements: "mastós" meaning "breast" and "oeidḗs" meaning "resembling". This term was primarily used to describe the shape of the breast-like process located behind the ear. "Portion", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "portiō", meaning "a part or section". Therefore, the term "mastoid portion" refers to a specific part or section of the mastoid bone, which lies behind the ear.
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