The epactal bone is a small plate-like bone that sits at the top of the axis vertebra in many mammal species. Interestingly, the spelling of this bone's name may seem confusing due to the pronunciation. The correct spelling phonetically is "ɛpækˌtəl boʊn." To break it down, the stress is on the second syllable "pac," while "t" and "l" sounds are heard separately. The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced as "uh." It's always essential to know the correct pronunciation of any term to avoid miscommunication.
The term "epactal bone" refers to a small ossification or growth plate located at the junction of the basioccipital and exoccipital bones in the cranium. It is situated in the posterior part of the skull, specifically in the region where the foramen magnum is located.
The epactal bone is deemed a secondary bone that plays a significant role in the growth and development of the skull during embryonic and early postnatal stages. It is mainly present in newborns and young children and eventually fuses with the basioccipital and exoccipital bones as the individual reaches adulthood. This bone serves as a temporary structure that allows for proper ossification and shaping of the occipital bone, which forms the posterior part of the cranium.
The epactal bone is considered to be of clinical importance as it has been linked to certain medical conditions and abnormalities. Its presence or absence is examined in radiographic studies and can provide important diagnostic information. Identification or evaluation of the epactal bone is crucial in assessing skull development and abnormalities, as well as aiding in determining the age of an individual when this bone is detected.
Wormian b.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "epactal" is derived from the Greek word "epaktos", meaning "inserted" or "intercalated". It is combined with the suffix "-al", which typically denotes a relationship or connection. Therefore, "epactal" can be understood as relating to something that is inserted or intercalated.
The term "epactal bone" is derived from the use of "epactal" to describe a specific bone in the anatomy known as the "epactal bone". However, it is important to note that the term "epactal bone" is not commonly used in modern anatomical terminology.