The word "perivascular canal" is pronounced as /ˌperɪˈvæskjʊlər kəˈnæl/. The spelling of the word is derived from its Greek roots: "peri-" meaning "around," "vascul-" meaning "vessel," and "-ar" meaning "pertaining to." The suffix "-canal" refers to a passage or duct. Therefore, the perivascular canal is a passage around a blood vessel. The correct spelling of this word is crucial in medical contexts, where accuracy and clarity are essential.
A perivascular canal, also known as perivascular space, refers to a narrow, fluid-filled channel that surrounds and runs parallel to blood vessels within certain tissues or organs of the body. These canals are typically found in various structures, such as the brain, spinal cord, and other vital organs.
Perivascular canals serve multiple functions within the body. Firstly, they act as conduits, allowing the exchange of substances between the vascular system and the surrounding tissues. This includes the transportation of oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the nearby cells, as well as the removal of waste products and toxins from the tissues.
Moreover, perivascular canals contribute to the regulation of tissue fluid balance and provide a space for the drainage of excess interstitial fluid. In some instances, these spaces can expand or contract, playing a role in maintaining proper tissue hydration and preventing the build-up of fluid within tissues, which could lead to swelling or edema.
Furthermore, perivascular canals also serve as a pathway for immune cells, facilitating their migration and infiltration into tissues during inflammatory responses. This immune cell trafficking helps defend against infections and promotes tissue repair and regeneration.
Overall, perivascular canals play a crucial role in maintaining proper tissue function and health by facilitating communication and transport between blood vessels and nearby cells while also supporting immune responses within the body.
The lymph-space surrounding a blood vessel.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "perivascular" originates from the combination of two Latin roots: "peri", meaning around or surrounding, and "vasculum", which means small vessel. Canals, on the other hand, come from the Latin word "canalis", meaning pipe or channel. Therefore, the etymology of the term "perivascular canal" refers to a channel or space that surrounds or is around blood vessels.