The term "plica ureterica" refers to a fold found in the lining of the ureter, which is a tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The word is pronounced as "pleye-kuh yoo-ree-ter-i-kuh" and is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription symbols /plɪkə jʊˈrɛtərɪkə/. Understanding the IPA can help readers accurately pronounce and spell medical terms. The plica ureterica is not a significant anatomical structure and does not typically require treatment.
Plica ureterica is a medical term used to refer to a fold or a ridge that can be found in the inner lining of the ureter - the tube that connects the kidneys to the bladder. The plica ureterica is a naturally occurring anatomical structure that may vary in size and shape among individuals.
These folds typically appear as delicate, longitudinal ridges that run the length of the ureter, and they are most commonly observed in the lower two-thirds of the ureter. They arise during the course of embryonic development and may persist into adulthood.
The purpose and function of the plica ureterica are not entirely clear, but it is believed to play an important role in facilitating urine flow. The folds may help to prevent reflux of urine by acting as a valve-like mechanism, preventing backward flow from the bladder to the kidneys. Additionally, they may contribute to the expansion and contraction of the ureter during the process of urine transportation.
While the presence of plica ureterica is generally considered a normal anatomical variation and does not typically cause any symptoms or complications, in certain cases, these folds can become obstructed or cause obstruction themselves. This can result in conditions such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction or contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
A fold of mucous membrane extending from the orifice of the ureter on either side to the median line of the bladder.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "plica ureterica" is derived from Latin roots. Here is the breakdown:
1. "Plica": In Latin, "plica" means a fold or a pleat. It comes from the verb "plicāre", which means to fold or to double up.
2. "Ureterica": This word is derived from the Latin noun "ureter" which refers to the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. Adding the suffix "-ica" makes it an adjective, indicating that it is related to or associated with the ureter.
Therefore, "plica ureterica" is a term used in medicine to describe a fold or pleat of the ureter.