The word "ethmoid cell" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription of /ˈɛθ.mɔɪd sɛl/. The first part of the word, "ethmoid", is pronounced with the sound of "e" followed by "th" and "moid". The second part, "cell", is pronounced with the sound of "s" followed by "ell". The ethmoid cells are a collection of air cells located in the ethmoid bone of the skull, and play a role in the drainage and regulation of mucus in the nasal cavity.
An ethmoid cell refers to one of the air-filled spaces located within the ethmoid bone, found in the skull between the eyes and posterior to the nasal cavity. The ethmoid bone is composed of thin bony plates, known as the cribriform plate, which separates the cranial cavity from the nasal cavity. The ethmoid cells are a series of small, interconnected cavities within this bone.
These cells are classified based on their location and include the anterior, middle, and posterior ethmoid cells. The anterior ethmoid cells are positioned between the frontal sinuses and the middle meatus of the nose. The middle ethmoid cells are located laterally, beneath the middle nasal concha, while the posterior ethmoid cells are situated along the superior concha.
Ethmoid cells are lined with mucous membranes, which play a crucial role in producing mucus to humidify and filter the inhaled air. They help to lighten the weight of the skull and contribute to the resonance of the voice. Additionally, these cells have an anatomical relationship with important structures such as the orbit (eye socket) and the frontal sinus.
Pathological conditions involving the ethmoid cells can include the development of cysts, polyps, or infections, which can lead to symptoms like facial pain, nasal congestion, or a reduced sense of smell. Treatment may involve medications to alleviate inflammation or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to remove the affected cells.
Cellula ethmoidalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ethmoid cell" comes from the combination of the terms "ethmoid" and "cell". Here is the breakdown of each term:
- "Ethmoid" refers to the ethmoid bone, which is a small, delicate bone located between the eyes and forms a part of the skull. The term "ethmoid" is derived from the Greek word "ethmos", meaning "sieve", which describes the bone's appearance due to the numerous small air-filled cavities within it.
- "Cell" simply refers to a small compartment or cavity.
Therefore, the term "ethmoid cell" describes one of the small, air-filled cavities within the ethmoid bone.