Perimysium externum is a term used in anatomy to describe the external connective tissue sheath surrounding a muscle fiber. In terms of phonetics, we can break down the spelling of this word using IPA symbols. "Peri-" is pronounced as /ˈpɛrɪ/, "-mysium" as /maɪˈsiːəm/, and "externum" as /ɛkˈstɜːrnəm/. Together, the word is pronounced as /pɛrɪˈmaɪsiəm ɛksˈtɜːrnəm/. With the use of IPA, we can better understand the sounds and pronunciation of complex medical terms like perimysium externum.
Perimysium externum refers to a specific layer of connective tissue that surrounds and provides support to individual muscle fibers within a muscle bundle or fascicle. The term "perimysium" comes from the Greek word "peri" meaning around and "mys" meaning muscle, while "externum" is derived from the Latin word for external. Therefore, perimysium externum can be understood as the outer layer of connective tissue that envelops and separates bundles of muscle fibers.
The perimysium externum is composed of dense irregular connective tissue, which contains collagen fibers arranged in a wavy or irregular pattern. This layer serves to protect and organize the muscle fibers within a fascicle, while also providing a pathway for blood vessels and nerves to reach the individual muscle fibers. It also aids in coordinating the contraction and relaxation of the muscle fibers within the fascicle, ensuring proper muscle functioning.
In short, perimysium externum is a structural component of skeletal muscle that encloses and supports bundles of muscle fibers, while also facilitating the delivery of essential nutrients and nerve signals. Its presence and organization contribute to the overall functioning and integrity of the muscle, allowing for coordinated and efficient movement.
Epimysium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term perimysium externum is a combination of Latin and Greek words.
- Peri- is a prefix in Greek meaning around or surrounding.
- Mysium is derived from the Greek word mys which means muscle.
- Externum is a Latin word meaning external or outer.
Therefore, combining these elements, perimysium externum essentially translates to the external or outer connective tissue surrounding the muscle.