PINEAL RECESS Meaning and
Definition
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The pineal recess is a term used in neuroanatomy and refers to a small depression or cavity located within the third ventricle of the brain. More specifically, it is situated posteriorly and superiorly within the third ventricle, just behind and above the epithalamus, a region that contains the pineal gland.
Formed by the invagination of the walls of the third ventricle, the pineal recess is often described as a small pouch-like structure. It is surrounded by adjacent structures such as the thalamus and the habenular trigone, which contribute to its boundaries.
The main significance of the pineal recess lies in its relationship with the pineal gland, an endocrine structure involved in the regulation of certain hormones, especially melatonin. The pineal gland is located just behind the pineal recess, projecting into it. This physical connection allows the gland to communicate with the brain through various pathways and regulate circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycles.
Although the precise function of the pineal recess itself is not fully understood, it is believed to play a role in the flow and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain's ventricular system. Its anatomical location and relation with the pineal gland give it relevance in studying the physiology and pathology associated with the gland, as well as in the context of various neurological conditions.
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Recessus pinealis of the third ventricle, dividing the habenula into two parts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PINEAL RECESS
- oineal recess
- lineal recess
- -ineal recess
- 0ineal recess
- puneal recess
- pjneal recess
- pkneal recess
- poneal recess
- p9neal recess
- p8neal recess
- pibeal recess
- pimeal recess
- pijeal recess
- piheal recess
- pinwal recess
- pinsal recess
- pindal recess
- pinral recess
- pin4al recess
- pin3al recess
Etymology of PINEAL RECESS
The word "pineal recess" is derived from two separate terms: "pineal" and "recess".
1. Pineal: The term "pineal" comes from the Latin word "pinealis", which means "resembling a pine cone". It is derived from the Latin word "pinus", which means "pine tree". This is because the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland in the brain, was thought to be shaped like a pine cone. The term was first used by the French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes in the 17th century.
2. Recess: The term "recess" originates from the Latin word "recessus", meaning "retirement", "retreat", or "recess". In anatomy, it refers to a small hollow or cavity, which may be formed by a natural depression or an indentation.
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