LATERAL VENTRICLES Meaning and
Definition
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Lateral ventricles are a pair of interconnected, C-shaped cavities located within the brain of mammals, including humans. These ventricles play a crucial role in the production, circulation, and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which is essential for maintaining the central nervous system. Each lateral ventricle is situated on one side of the brain and consists of a large, curved main body and four distinct extensions or horns.
The main body of the lateral ventricle is located within the cerebral hemispheres and is separated by a thin vertical sheet of tissue called the septum pellucidum. From the main body, the anterior horn extends forward to the frontal lobe, the posterior horn reaches backward to the occipital lobe, the inferior horn projects downward to the temporal lobe, and the atrium connects the main body to the posterior horn.
The lateral ventricles contain choroid plexuses, specialized structures responsible for secreting CSF. This clear, colorless fluid fills the ventricles, acting as a protective cushion for the brain and spinal cord, and providing nutrients and waste removal. CSF is continuously produced and circulates through the lateral ventricles and other ventricles of the brain before being absorbed into the bloodstream.
The size and shape of the lateral ventricles can vary under certain pathological conditions, such as hydrocephalus (accumulation of excess CSF) or brain atrophy (shrinkage of brain tissue). Their abnormal enlargement or shrinkage can be indicative of various neurological disorders and can sometimes be observed using medical imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Common Misspellings for LATERAL VENTRICLES
- kateral ventricles
- pateral ventricles
- oateral ventricles
- lzteral ventricles
- lsteral ventricles
- lwteral ventricles
- lqteral ventricles
- lareral ventricles
- laferal ventricles
- lageral ventricles
- layeral ventricles
- la6eral ventricles
- la5eral ventricles
- latwral ventricles
- latsral ventricles
- latdral ventricles
- latrral ventricles
- lat4ral ventricles
- lat3ral ventricles
- lateeal ventricles
Etymology of LATERAL VENTRICLES
The word "lateral" comes from the Latin word "lateralis", which means "of or relating to the side". The term "ventricles" originates from the Latin word "ventriculus", meaning "a small cavity or chamber". In the context of anatomy, ventricles refer to hollow spaces within an organ, usually filled with fluid. Hence, the term "lateral ventricles" describes the two cavities located on each side of the brain that contain cerebrospinal fluid.
