The spelling of the word "glandula cardiaca" can be a bit tricky for English speakers, as it includes some unfamiliar letters and sounds. The first word, "glandula," is spelled with a "u" (rather than an "e") and a "d" (rather than a "t") to reflect its Latin origins. The second word, "cardiaca," includes the letter combination "ia," which is pronounced as "ya" in IPA phonetic transcription. This emphasizes the "y" sound at the end of the word and distinguishes it from the more common "cardiac."
The term "glandula cardiaca" refers to a gland in the human body that is primarily associated with the cardiovascular system. The Latin term "glandula" denotes a secretory organ, while "cardiaca" signifies its connection to the heart.
The glandula cardiaca, also known as the cardiac gland, is a small, specialized glandular structure located in the walls of the cardiac stomach, specifically in the cardiac region of the human digestive system. It is found in some animal species as well, including birds and mammals.
This glandular structure is responsible for producing mucus and other secretions that aid in the process of digestion, particularly in the initial breakdown of food before it enters the main stomach compartments. The mucus secreted by the glandula cardiaca has a protective role, coating the epithelial lining of the stomach and minimizing the harmful effects of stomach acid.
The glandula cardiaca releases its secretions directly onto the cardiac mucosa, a thin layer of tissue that covers the inner surface of the stomach's cardiac region. The mucus and other substances produced by this gland help to lubricate the food bolus and facilitate its movement toward the main digestive compartments.
Overall, the glandula cardiaca plays a vital role in the digestive process by providing a protective layer and aiding in the initial breakdown of food particles within the stomach.
One of the branched tubular glands of the stomach, most numerous near the esophageal opening, which secrete mucus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "glandula cardiaca" has Latin roots and its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. Glandula: Translated as "gland" in English, this word originated from the Latin "glans" meaning "acorn" or "seed". The term evolved to refer to various secretory organs in the human body.
2. Cardiaca: Derived from "cardiacus", which stems from the Greek word "kardiakos" meaning "of the heart". The word "cardia" specifically refers to the region of the stomach adjoining the esophagus.
When combined, "glandula cardiaca" translates to "cardiac gland". This term might be used to describe a specific gland related to the heart or the region of the stomach near the heart.