MEDULLA OBLONGATA Meaning and
Definition
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The medulla oblongata is a vital section of the brainstem that serves as a bridge, connecting the brain to the spinal cord. It is a small, cone-shaped structure located at the base of the skull, specifically in the lower part of the brainstem, and is responsible for various crucial functions pertaining to the autonomic nervous system.
Functionally, the medulla oblongata acts as a relay center for information passing between different parts of the brain and spinal cord. It plays a crucial role in controlling many involuntary activities of the body, including regulation of blood pressure, breathing, heart rate, digestion, and sleep. Additionally, it aids in the coordination of motor functions, such as swallowing, coughing, sneezing, and vomiting.
The medulla oblongata houses vital nuclei that regulate the flow of information traveling from the brain to the body and vice versa. These include cardiovascular centers, respiratory centers, vomiting centers, and various cranial nerve nuclei. Moreover, it facilitates the transmission of sensory signals, playing a significant role in reflex actions and responses.
In summary, the medulla oblongata is a critical part of the brainstem that controls essential physiological functions necessary for our survival. Its regulatory mechanisms and connections with other areas of the brain and spinal cord make it an integral component of the autonomic nervous system and overall homeostasis of the body.
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The prolongation of the spinal cord into the brain, extending from the lower end of the decussation of the pyramids to the pons Varolii; it is about an inch long, cylindrical in shape, somewhat enlarged at its upper extremity, its anterior surface resembling in configuration the spinal cord, and posteriorly forming part of the floor of the fourth ventricle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In anat., the lengthened or prolonged marrow, the continuation of the spinal cord within the skull.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MEDULLA OBLONGATA
- nedulla oblongata
- kedulla oblongata
- jedulla oblongata
- mwdulla oblongata
- msdulla oblongata
- mddulla oblongata
- mrdulla oblongata
- m4dulla oblongata
- m3dulla oblongata
- mesulla oblongata
- mexulla oblongata
- meculla oblongata
- mefulla oblongata
- merulla oblongata
- meeulla oblongata
- medylla oblongata
- medhlla oblongata
- medjlla oblongata
- medilla oblongata
Etymology of MEDULLA OBLONGATA
The word "medulla oblongata" is derived from Latin. "Medulla" translates to "marrow" or "pith", and "oblongata" means "elongated". The Latin term "medulla oblongata" literally refers to the elongated structure resembling the shape of a marrow found in the brainstem.
