CISTERNA LATERALIS Meaning and
Definition
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"Cisterna lateralis" is a term used in anatomy and biology to refer to a specific structure found in the brain region known as the subarachnoid space. It is characterized as a wide, elongated, and horizontal cavity situated between the pons and the medulla oblongata.
More precisely, the cisterna lateralis is part of the larger system of interconnected cavities within the subarachnoid space, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This space and its various cisterns play a vital role in cushioning and protecting the brain and spinal cord from potential trauma. The cisterna lateralis, in particular, is strategically located to maintain the flow and circulation of CSF within the cranial cavity, ensuring proper distribution and exchange of nutrients, waste products, and chemical signals.
The cisterna lateralis is bordered by several key structures, including the arachnoid membrane, pons, and the medulla oblongata. Additionally, it receives contributions from other cisterns, such as the cisterna pontis and the cerebellopontine angle cistern. This anatomical arrangement facilitates the continuous movement of CSF, enabling the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the brain and other parts of the central nervous system.
Understanding the structure and function of the cisterna lateralis is critical in diagnosing and treating certain neurological conditions that involve disturbances in CSF flow or interferences with the normal functioning of the subarachnoid space.
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Chyle cistern, receptaculum chyli, a dilated sac 2 or 3 in. (5-7.5 cm.) in length by 1/4 to 1/3 in. (6-8 mm.) in width, lying between the vena azygos major and the aorta opposite the first and second lumbar vertebrae; it receives the intestinal, two lumbar and two descending lymphatic trunks, and gives origin to the thoracic duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CISTERNA LATERALIS
- xisterna lateralis
- visterna lateralis
- fisterna lateralis
- disterna lateralis
- custerna lateralis
- cjsterna lateralis
- cksterna lateralis
- costerna lateralis
- c9sterna lateralis
- c8sterna lateralis
- ciaterna lateralis
- cizterna lateralis
- cixterna lateralis
- cidterna lateralis
- cieterna lateralis
- ciwterna lateralis
- cisrerna lateralis
- cisferna lateralis
- cisgerna lateralis
- cisyerna lateralis
Etymology of CISTERNA LATERALIS
The word "cisterna lateralis" has Latin roots.
In Latin, "cisterna" means "cistern" or "reservoir". It refers to a hollow container or vessel used to store or hold liquids, similar to a tank or a well.
"Lateralis" means "lateral" or "side", indicating the position or location of something on the side.
Therefore, "cisterna lateralis" can be understood as a "lateral cistern" or a cistern situated on the side.
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