The term "periotic bone" refers to a pair of bones located in the skull that house the inner ear. The spelling of this word is based on its pronunciation, which can be transcribed in IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) as /ˌpɛrɪˈɒtɪk boʊn/. The first syllable "peri" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by a stress on the second syllable "otik." The final syllable "bone" is pronounced with a long "o" sound. Proper spelling of medical terms is essential to avoid confusion and ensure accurate communication.
Periotic bone is a term primarily used in the field of anatomy and refers to a specific bone structure found in the skull of mammals, including humans. It is a pair of pyramid-shaped bones located on each side of the skull in the temporal region. The word "periotic" is derived from the Greek words "peri" meaning around or surrounding, and "oti" meaning the ear, suggesting its close association with the auditory system.
The primary function of the periotic bone is to protect and house the delicate structures of the inner ear, primarily the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals, which are responsible for hearing and balance. This bone is characterized by its dense and hard composition, as it needs to provide maximum protection to the intricate structures within.
The periotic bone is comprised of several distinct parts, including the petrous portion, mastoid process, and the styloid process, each serving its own anatomical purpose. The petrous portion, which is the densest part of the temporal bone, houses the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. The mastoid process serves as an attachment site for various muscles and ligaments, while the styloid process provides support for the muscles and tendons of the throat and tongue.
Overall, the periotic bone plays a crucial role in safeguarding the delicate structures of the inner ear, ensuring proper hearing function and balance for mammals.
The petrous and mastoid portions of the temporal bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "periotic" is derived from Late Latin "periōticus", which comes from the Greek word "periōtikós", meaning "around the ear".
The term "periotic" refers to a pair of irregular bones located in the skull near the ear. These bones contribute to the structure of the inner ear and are involved in hearing and balance functions.