The spelling of "cellula mastoidea" may seem daunting, but it can be easily broken down with the help of IPA phonetic transcription. "Cellula" is pronounced "tseh-LOO-lah", with the stress on the "LOO" and an "ah" at the end. "Mastoidea" is pronounced "mas-toh-IH-dee-ah", with the stress on the "I" and an "ah" at the end. This term refers to the mastoid cells of the temporal bone, which are located behind the ear and help in the production of cells for the immune system.
Cellula mastoidea, also known as the mastoid air cell or simply mastoid cell, refers to a small, air-filled cavity located within the mastoid process of the temporal bone in the skull. The mastoid process is the bony prominence found behind the ear. This cellula or cavity is a part of the mastoid system, which includes a network of interconnected spaces within the mastoid process.
The cellula mastoidea is lined with a mucous membrane and interconnected with other air cells, the middle ear, and the Eustachian tube, which plays a role in maintaining pressure and ventilation in the middle ear. Its precise structure and size can vary between individuals.
The primary function of the cellula mastoidea is not completely understood, but it is theorized to serve as an extension of the middle ear, contributing to the equalization of air pressure. These air cells may also play a role in sound transmission, the protection of delicate structures within the ear, and the drainage of fluid or secretion from the middle ear.
In some instances, the cellula mastoidea can be a site of infection or inflammation, leading to conditions like mastoiditis. In severe cases, such infections may require medical intervention, including treatment with antibiotics or surgical procedures to drain trapped fluid or remove infected tissue from the mastoid cells.
Mastoid cell, one of numerous small intercommunicating cavities in the mastoid process of the temporal bone which empty into the mastoid or tympanic antrum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cellula mastoidea" is derived from Latin and Greek.
1. "Cellula" comes from the Latin word "cellula" meaning "small room" or "cell". It is a diminutive form of "cella", which means "chamber" or "storeroom".
2. "Mastoidea" is derived from the Greek word "mastoidēs", composed of two parts:
a) "Mastos" means "breast" or "breasts" in Greek. It is used to refer to the shape and location of the bone structure.
b) "Eidos" means "form" or "shape" in Greek.
Thus, "cellula mastoidea" in Latin directly translates to "small room with a mastoid-like shape" in English.