GLOBULUS MEDULLARIS Meaning and
Definition
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Globulus medullaris, also known as the medullary cone or conus medullaris, refers to a tapering, cone-shaped structure found at the lower end of the spinal cord. It is situated within the lumbar region of the vertebral column, specifically at the level of the first or second lumbar vertebrae.
The globulus medullaris functions as the endpoint of the spinal cord and is responsible for transmitting neural signals from the brain to the lower extremities. It serves as the starting point for the delicate nerve roots, known as the cauda equina, which branch out and extend within the spinal canal. These nerve roots innervate various regions of the pelvic girdle, lower limbs, and perineum.
The structure of the globulus medullaris is characterized by a central canal, known as the terminal ventricle, which contains cerebrospinal fluid. It is surrounded by white matter composed of ascending and descending nerve fibers, which carry sensory and motor signals between the brain and the body. Additionally, the outer layer consists of gray matter, housing various cell bodies and interneurons.
Pathologies affecting the globulus medullaris can lead to significant neurological impairments. Conditions such as tethered cord syndrome, syringomyelia, and spinal cord tumors may cause compression, inflammation, or disruption of neural pathways, resulting in motor weakness, sensory deficits, loss of bladder and bowel control, and various other neurological symptoms.
In summary, the globulus medullaris is a conical structure situated at the lower end of the spinal cord. It plays a crucial role in transmitting neural signals to the lower limbs and pelvic region, and any damage or dysfunction to this region can result in significant neurological deficits.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GLOBULUS MEDULLARIS
- glowbulusmedullaris
- g lobulus medullaris
- gl obulus medullaris
- glo bulus medullaris
- glob ulus medullaris
- globu lus medullaris
- globul us medullaris
- globulu s medullaris
- globulus m edullaris
- globulus me dullaris
- globulus med ullaris
- globulus medu llaris
- globulus medul laris
- globulus medull aris
- globulus medulla ris
- globulus medullar is
- globulus medullari s
Etymology of GLOBULUS MEDULLARIS
The word "globulus medullaris" is of Latin origin.
The term "globulus" comes from "globus", meaning "sphere" or "small ball". A "globulus" refers to something small and round, reminiscent of a ball.
The term "medullaris" is derived from "medulla", which means "marrow" or "core" in Latin. It usually refers to the innermost part of an organ or structure.
So, when the two words are combined, "globulus medullaris" refers to the small spherical structure within an organ or body part that resembles a core or central component.
