The spelling of the medical term "cisterna latum" is pronounced /ˈsɪstərnə ˈleɪtəm/. The term refers to the large subarachnoid space in the brain which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid. Both parts of the word, "cisterna" and "latum," are derived from Latin. "Cisterna" means a reservoir or storage tank, while "latum" means "broad" or "wide." The spelling of this word is important in medical terminology as it allows for clear communication between healthcare providers about specific anatomical structures in the brain.
Cisterna latum is a Latin term used in medicine to refer to a specific anatomical structure within the brain known as the cistern of the lateral fissure. The term "cisterna" refers to a sac-like space filled with fluid, while "latum" translates to "wide" or "broad" in English.
Specifically, the cisterna latum is a cerebrospinal fluid-filled cavity located deep within the brain in close proximity to the lateral fissure, a prominent groove that separates the frontal and temporal lobes. It is also referred to as the temporal cistern or the sylvian cistern due to its location adjacent to the Sylvian fissure.
The cisterna latum plays a crucial role in the circulation and distribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the central nervous system. It serves as a collecting point for CSF that is produced in the ventricles of the brain, allowing for the exchange and distribution of this fluid to various regions within the brain and spinal cord.
Pathological conditions affecting the cisterna latum can have significant impacts on brain function and health. For example, disrupted CSF flow within this cistern can lead to the accumulation of excess fluid in the brain, resulting in a condition called hydrocephalus. Additionally, infections or bleeding within the cistern can cause inflammation, leading to a range of neurological symptoms.
Overall, the cisterna latum is an integral part of the brain's fluid dynamics, ensuring proper circulation and functioning of cerebrospinal fluid throughout the central nervous system.
C. Interpeduncularis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "cisterna latum" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of Latin words.
"Cisterna" comes from the Latin cisterna, which means "cistern" or "reservoir". It is derived from the older Latin word cista, meaning "box" or "chest", which in turn comes from the Greek kistē, meaning "basket" or "chest".
"Latum" is the neuter form of the adjective latus, meaning "wide" or "broad". It is derived from the Latin word latus, which has the same meaning.
So, when combined, "cisterna latum" can be understood to refer to a "wide cistern" or a "broad reservoir".