External auditory meatus is the medical term used to refer to the ear canal or the passage that connects the outer ear to the tympanic membrane. The spelling of this word can be quite intimidating, but it can be broken down phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The word can be pronounced as [ɪkˈstɜːr.nəl ɔːˈdɪtər.i ˈmiː.ətəs], with each phonetic symbol representing the sounds of each letter or syllable in the word. It's important to understand the spelling of medical terms to ensure clear communication between healthcare providers and patients.
The external auditory meatus, commonly known as the ear canal, is a tubular structure of the ear that connects the outer ear to the middle ear. It is a vital component of the auditory system and serves multiple functions related to hearing and balancing mechanisms.
The external auditory meatus is located in the temporal bone and is lined with a delicate layer of skin, which is continuous with the skin of the outer ear. Its main role is to conduct sound waves from the environment to the eardrum, which initiates the process of hearing. Furthermore, it assists in filtering out unwanted sounds and protecting the middle and inner ear from foreign objects and water.
This cylindrical passageway is slightly curved and measures approximately 2.5 centimeters in length and 0.7 centimeters in diameter in adult humans. It is narrower at the deeper end where it leads to the tympanic membrane or eardrum. The outer third of the ear canal contains small hair follicles and wax-producing glands that contribute to the production of cerumen (earwax), which lubricates and protects the ear.
The external auditory meatus has a highly innervated and sensitive surface, making it susceptible to various conditions such as ear infections, blockages, injuries, and inflammation. Proper hygiene of the ear canal is essential to maintain its health and prevent complications that may affect hearing and overall ear function.
M. Acusticus externus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.