MACULA ACUSTICA Meaning and
Definition
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Macula acustica refers to a sensory organ found within the vestibular system of the inner ear that is responsible for detecting and perceiving sound. Specifically, it plays a crucial role in the interpretation of gravity and linear acceleration. This organ comprises the otolithic membrane, which is a gelatinous structure embedded with numerous specialized sensory cells known as hair cells. These microscopic cells are equipped with fine hairlike projections called stereocilia, which are crucial for transducing mechanical vibrations caused by sound or movement into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.
The macula acustica is anatomically divided into two parts: the utricle and saccule. The utricle is sensitive to horizontal movement and the saccule is responsive to vertical movement. These two regions are located within the vestibule, a fluid-filled cavity situated in the inner ear. When the head is subjected to acceleration or change in position, the otolithic membrane, along with the embedded hair cells, moves in response, bending the stereocilia and generating electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the vestibular nerve, providing information on the body's spatial orientation and movement, including the perception of sound and balance.
In summary, the macula acustica plays a fundamental role in the detection and interpretation of sound and motion, enhancing our understanding of our body's position and facilitating balance and coordination.
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Acoustic macula or spot; an oval area about 3 mm. in length in the wall of both sacculus and utriculus in the membranous labyrinth; each of these maculae consists of fusiform nucleated supporting cells, between which are flask cells (also nucleated) having a hair-like process projecting from the free extremity of each, hence called hair-cells; on the surface of each macula is a collection of rhombic calcium carbonate crystals called otoconia; the macula is in relation with the nerve-fibers which terminate in arborizations around the hair-cells.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MACULA ACUSTICA
- macula acustiga
- macula acustiaa
- macula acustiba
- macula acustici
- macula acustice
- macula acusticc
- m acula acustica
- ma cula acustica
- mac ula acustica
- macu la acustica
- macul a acustica
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- macula acusti ca
- macula acustic a
Etymology of MACULA ACUSTICA
The term "macula acustica" is a Latin phrase typically used in the context of anatomy and physiology.
The word "macula" comes from the Latin word "macula" meaning "spot" or "blemish". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "mak-", meaning "to stain" or "to spot". In anatomy, "macula" refers to a small, specialized area or region, often flat or slightly depressed.
The word "acustica" is derived from the Latin word "acusticus" (also spelled "acusticum"), which was inspired by the Greek word "akoúo" meaning "I hear" or "to hear". In anatomy, "acustica" refers to structures related to hearing or the auditory system.
Similar spelling words for MACULA ACUSTICA
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