"Auris externa" is a Latin term used to refer to the outer ear. The spelling of this term is influenced by Latin phonetics and orthography. In IPA phonetic transcription, "auris" is pronounced as /aʊrɪs/ with emphasis on the first syllable, while "externa" is pronounced as /ɛkˈstɛrnə/ with emphasis on the second syllable. The use of Latin in scientific and medical terminology is still common today, and understanding the correct spelling and pronunciation of such terms is important for healthcare professionals.
Auris externa, commonly referred to as the external ear, is the visible and outermost portion of the ear located on both sides of the head. It consists of several structures that play a vital role in hearing and maintaining the overall health of the ear. The auris externa primarily facilitates the collection and transmission of sound waves towards the middle and inner ear parts, aiding in the process of hearing.
The key components of the auris externa include the pinna, external auditory canal, and the tympanic membrane (eardrum). The pinna, also known as the auricle, is the visible part of the ear responsible for capturing sound waves and directing them into the auditory canal. The auditory canal is a narrow, tubular structure that is lined with specialized skin cells and glands to produce earwax. Earwax acts as a protective barrier against foreign particles and microorganisms, and its secretion lubricates the canal to prevent dryness.
At the end of the auditory canal lies the tympanic membrane or eardrum, which acts as a barrier separating the external ear from the middle ear. The eardrum vibrates when sound waves strike it, transforming the mechanical energy of the sound into vibrations. These vibrations are then transmitted to the middle ear, where they are further amplified and relayed to the inner ear for sensory perception.
In summary, the auris externa is the outer part of the ear that collects and directs sound waves towards the eardrum, playing a crucial role in the process of hearing.
The external ear, auricle, pinna.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The phrase "auris externa" is derived from Latin. "Auris" means "ear" and "externa" means "outer". Therefore, "auris externa" refers to the outer part of the ear.