The term "ganglion coccygeum" is used to describe a small mass of nervous tissue located near the end of the spine. The correct spelling of this term can be a bit tricky due to the unique combination of consonants and vowels. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be spelled [ɡæŋɡlioʊn kɑkˈsɪdʒiəm]. The first part of the word, "ganglion," is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, and the second part, "coccygeum," has a soft "c" sound and a combination of vowels that create a unique sound.
Ganglion coccygeum, also referred to as coccygeal ganglion or coccygeal plexus, is a small cluster or group of nerve cells located in the region of the coccyx, specifically near the tip of the spinal column. This ganglion is a part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.
The coccygeal ganglion consists of a collection of nerve cell bodies and fibers that collectively form a network of nerves and plexuses responsible for transmitting signals between various parts of the body. It serves as a crucial connection point for the communication between the central nervous system and different structures in the pelvic region.
Functionally, the ganglion coccygeum plays a role in regulating certain processes in the body, such as the control of smooth muscles, blood flow, and the innervation of structures in the pelvic area. It is involved in the coordination of various physiological functions related to urination, defecation, sexual arousal, and the control of pelvic organs.
Disorders or pathologies related to the ganglion coccygeum can result in conditions like coccydynia (pain in the coccyx or tailbone), pelvic pain, or dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles. Moreover, dysfunction in this ganglion can also have an impact on bladder and bowel control, as well as sexual function.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the ganglion coccygeum is essential for healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the coccyx and the surrounding structures.
Coccygeal g., g. impar, the lower terminal, unpaired g. of the sympathetic trunk; it is not always present.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word ganglion coccygeum combines two Latin components: ganglion meaning tumor or knot, and coccygeum referring to the coccyx, which is the small bone at the end of the vertebral column, commonly known as the tailbone. Therefore, ganglion coccygeum literally translates to tumor of the coccyx.