DECUSSATION Meaning and
Definition
-
Decussation is a medical and anatomical term that refers to the crossing or intersection of nerve fibers or tracts from one side of the body to the other. It mainly occurs in the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord.
The process of decussation plays a crucial role in the coordination and transmission of sensory and motor information between different sides of the body. It allows for the integration of information from one side of the body to be processed by the opposite side of the brain and vice versa. This crossing over of nerve fibers is what enables the brain to control and coordinate movements and sensations on the contralateral (opposite) side of the body.
Decussation is particularly prominent in structures such as the pyramids in the medulla oblongata, where the majority of fibers from the corticospinal tract cross over to the opposite side of the spinal cord. Other examples of decussation include the optic chiasm, where fibers from the optic nerves cross over, and the anterior commissure, which connects the two hemispheres of the brain.
Understanding decussation is crucial for neuroscientists, neurologists, and other medical professionals to comprehend the intricate pathways and connections within the nervous system. It helps explain how information is transmitted and processed throughout the body and assists in diagnosing and treating neurological conditions and disorders.
-
1. A crossing, especially of two nerve tracts; chiasm. 2. The point of crossing of two tracts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
The act of crossing in the form of an X.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DECUSSATION
- secussation
- xecussation
- cecussation
- fecussation
- recussation
- eecussation
- dwcussation
- dscussation
- ddcussation
- drcussation
- d4cussation
- d3cussation
- dexussation
- devussation
- defussation
- dedussation
- decyssation
- dechssation
- decjssation
- decyussation
Etymology of DECUSSATION
The word "decussation" derives from the Latin term "decussatio", which means "the act of crossing in the shape of an 'X'". It comes from the Latin verb "decussare", meaning "to divide in the shape of an 'X'" or "to cross". The Latin term is derived from the prefix "de-" (meaning "down", "away", or "apart") and the noun "cussis", which refers to the act of striking or meeting. Thus, the word "decussation" originally described the crossing or intersection of two objects, lines, or pathways in the shape of an 'X', similar to swords crossing at a duel or the pattern of crossing tracks. In anatomical terminology, it specifically refers to the crossing of nerve fibers from one side of the body to the other within the central nervous system.
Similar spelling words for DECUSSATION
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
