The term "canalis nasolacrimalis" refers to the nasolacrimal duct, a small tube that drains tears from the eye into the nose. Its spelling can be quite tricky due to its Latin origin and technical nature. The correct pronunciation is [kəˈneɪlɪs næzoʊˌlækrimælɪs], where the "c" is pronounced as a soft "c" as in "cent" and the "s" is pronounced as a soft "s" as in "sun". The phonetic transcription helps to clarify how to pronounce this difficult-to-spell word.
The term "canalis nasolacrimalis" refers to a small canal or passage that is part of the anatomy of the human body, specifically within the nasal region. It is also commonly known as the nasolacrimal duct. The canal connects the lacrimal sac, which is a small sac-like structure near the inner corner of the eye, to the nasal cavity.
The primary function of the canalis nasolacrimalis is to drain tears from the eyes. Tears are synthesized by the lacrimal glands, which are located above the outer corner of each eye, and help keep the eyes lubricated and free from foreign particles. The excess tears, as well as tears produced in response to emotions or irritants, are collected in the lacrimal sac.
From the lacrimal sac, the tears then flow through the canalis nasolacrimalis into the nasal cavity, where they are eventually expelled or absorbed.
In cases where there is an obstruction or blockage in the canalis nasolacrimalis, the flow of tears may be disrupted, leading to a condition called nasolacrimal duct obstruction. This can result in excessive tearing, recurrent eye infections, or inflammation in the lacrimal ducts.
Overall, the canalis nasolacrimalis plays a crucial role in maintaining the proper drainage of tears, helping to keep the eyes functioning properly and preventing excess tears from overflowing onto the face.
Nasolacrymal canal, nasal canal, lacrymal canal; a canal leading from the orbital into the nasal cavity, containing the nasal duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "canalis nasolacrimalis" originates from Latin.
- "Canalis" means "canal" or "duct" in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "cana" which translates to "tube" or "pipe".
- "Nasolacrimalis" combines two Latin words. "Naso" refers to the "nose" and "lacrimalis" means "pertaining to tears" or "tear glands". So, "nasolacrimalis" can be interpreted as "relating to the nose and tears", specifically referring to the tear ducts that drain into the nasal cavity.