EPINEURIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Epineurium refers to the outermost layer of dense connective tissue that surrounds and protects a complete peripheral nerve. It is a tough, fibrous sheath composed of collagen fibers that envelops the entire nerve trunk, providing structural support and maintaining the integrity of the nerve. The prefix "epi-" in epineurium signifies its position on top of or surrounding the nerve, implying its outermost location.
The primary function of the epineurium is to provide mechanical strength and protection to peripheral nerves. It acts as a barrier and encapsulates the nerve, shielding it from external forces, injuries, and friction, which could potentially damage the delicate nerve fibers within. The dense fibrous composition of the epineurium adds strength and durability to the nerve structure, preventing its compression or stretching beyond normal limits. Furthermore, it helps in maintaining the proper organization and orientation of the nerve fascicles within the nerve trunk.
The epineurium also ensures the supply of essential nutrients and oxygen to the nerve by facilitating the passage of blood vessels into the nerve tissue. Additionally, it assists in the regulation of temperature around the nerve, enabling optimal functioning. In pathological conditions such as nerve injuries or neuropathies, the epineurium undergoes various changes to cope with the damage and participate in the healing process.
In conclusion, the epineurium is a protective sheath of dense connective tissue that encases peripheral nerves and plays a vital role in maintaining their structural integrity, protecting them from external forces, and facilitating their normal functioning.
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The connective tissue surrounding a nerve-trunk and binding together the funiculi; it contains the blood-vessels and lymphatics and usually more or less fat.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for EPINEURIUM
- wpineurium
- spineurium
- dpineurium
- rpineurium
- 4pineurium
- 3pineurium
- eoineurium
- elineurium
- e-ineurium
- e0ineurium
- epuneurium
- epjneurium
- epkneurium
- eponeurium
- ep9neurium
- ep8neurium
- epibeurium
- epimeurium
- epijeurium
Etymology of EPINEURIUM
The term epineurium is derived from the combination of two Greek words: epi meaning upon or above, and neuron meaning nerve. The epineurium refers to the outermost layer or sheath that surrounds and protects a nerve bundle or peripheral nerve. Hence, the word epineurium literally translates to upon the nerve.
Similar spelling words for EPINEURIUM
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