Caput humeri is a Latin term that refers to the head of the humerus bone in the shoulder joint. The spelling of this term is based on the classical Latin pronunciation, with the "c" pronounced as a "k" sound, the "u" as a long "oo" sound, the "h" being silent, and the "i" pronounced as a "y" sound. Overall, the correct phonetic transcription of this term is /ˈkæpʊt ˈhjuːmɛraɪ/. It is necessary to spell Latin terms accurately in order to facilitate clear communication and understanding in the medical field.
Caput humeri is a Latin term that refers to the head of the humerus bone, which is the long bone of the upper arm. Specifically, it signifies the rounded, ball-shaped portion of the humerus, located at its proximal end. The caput humeri serves a crucial role in the skeletal system, as it forms part of the shoulder joint.
Anatomically, the caput humeri articulates with the glenoid cavity, a shallow concave socket found on the scapula bone, allowing for the movements that occur at the shoulder joint. This ball-and-socket joint structure enables a wide range of motions, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation of the arm.
The caput humeri consists of a hard, dense outer layer called the cortical bone, while the inner portion is composed of cancellous or spongy bone tissue. It has a rich blood supply, necessary for nourishment and oxygenation, facilitated by the humeral arteries. Nerves are also present in this region, such as the axillary nerve, which innervates various muscles around the shoulder joint.
In summary, caput humeri is the rounded head of the humerus bone, which forms the shoulder joint through its articulation with the glenoid cavity. This area is essential for the mobility and stability of the shoulder, contributing to the varied movements of the upper arm.
Head of the humerus, the upper rounded extremity fitting into the glenoid cavity of the scapula.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "caput humeri" originates from Latin, which translates to "head of the humerus" in English.
- "Caput" comes from the Latin term "caput", meaning "head" or "top". In anatomy, "caput" often refers to the topmost part or the rounded end of a bone.
- "Humeri" is the genitive form of "humerus", another Latin term referring to the bone of the upper arm or forelimb, located between the shoulder and the elbow.
Together, "caput humeri" represents the head or uppermost part of the humerus bone. This term is commonly used in medical and anatomical contexts.