CAVERNOUS BODY Meaning and
Definition
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The cavernous body is a specialized anatomical structure found in certain organisms, most notably in mammals. It refers to a complex network of blood-filled compartments or spaces that play a crucial role in various physiological processes. Also known as the corpus cavernosum, it is typically found in parts of the body where increased blood flow and expansion are required.
In mammals, the cavernous body is particularly prominent in male reproductive organs, such as the penis, as well as in female reproductive organs, specifically the clitoris. In both cases, it serves as an essential component of the erectile tissue responsible for engorgement and rigidity during sexual activity.
Within the cavernous body, numerous tiny blood vessels, known as sinuses, are layered with smooth muscle cells. During sexual stimulation, these muscles relax, allowing blood to fill the sinuses and leading to the expansion and hardening of the organ. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as an erection, enables optimal sexual function for reproduction.
The cavernous body not only contributes to sexual function but also plays a role in maintaining overall vascular health. It acts as a reservoir for blood during periods of increased demand, allowing for rapid delivery to surrounding tissues when needed. Additionally, the cavernous body is responsible for the regulation of blood flow and pressure within these specialized structures.
Due to its vital physiological role, any abnormalities or dysfunctions of the cavernous body can have significant implications on sexual health and overall well-being.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CAVERNOUS BODY
- xavernous body
- vavernous body
- favernous body
- davernous body
- czvernous body
- csvernous body
- cwvernous body
- cqvernous body
- cacernous body
- cabernous body
- cagernous body
- cafernous body
- cavwrnous body
- cavsrnous body
- cavdrnous body
- cavrrnous body
- cav4rnous body
- cav3rnous body
- caveenous body
- cavednous body
Etymology of CAVERNOUS BODY
The word "cavernous" originates from the Latin word "caverna", meaning "cave" or "hollow". The term "cavernous body" is used in anatomy to refer to a structure or tissue that resembles a "cave" in its appearance or function. Specifically, in human physiology, the cavernous bodies (also known as corpus cavernosum) are erectile tissues found in the penis and clitoris. These tissues contain numerous small spaces or cavities that fill with blood during sexual arousal, causing them to expand and contribute to the mechanisms of erection. The term "cavernous body" is directly derived from the Latin "caverna" and the word "body" referring to a structure or part of an organism.
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