Plica ventricularis is a term used in anatomy to refer to a fold of tissue inside the ventricles of the brain. The spelling of this word is based on its pronunciation, which can be transcribed as /ˈplɪkə vɛnˈtrɪkjʊlərɪs/. The first syllable, "plik," is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the "k" consonant sound. The second part of the word, "ventricularis," is pronounced with emphasis on the second syllable, using a short "e" sound followed by the "k" and "j" consonants. The final syllable, "ris," is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by an "s" sound.
Plica ventricularis refers to a prominent fold or ridge located within the ventricles of the brain. The ventricles are fluid-filled spaces within the brain that play a crucial role in the production, circulation, and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The plica ventricularis, also known as the ventricular fold or choroid plexus fold, is a distinctive anatomical feature that can be found specifically in the lateral ventricles, which are the largest of the brain's ventricular system.
The plica ventricularis is composed of specialized cells called choroid plexus, which are responsible for the production of cerebrospinal fluid. This fold extends from the choroid plexus, a network of blood vessels covered by a layer of specialized cells that line the ventricles. The plica ventricularis extends into the lateral ventricles, creating an intricate pattern and increasing the surface area for fluid production.
The importance of the plica ventricularis lies in its role in CSF production and circulation. Cerebrospinal fluid provides essential functions such as protecting the brain and spinal cord from injury, maintaining a stable environment around these structures, and assisting in the removal of waste products. The plica ventricularis helps to maximize the surface area of the choroid plexus, optimizing the production and secretion of CSF into the ventricles.
Overall, the plica ventricularis is an anatomical feature that plays a crucial role in the neurophysiology of the brain, specifically in the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricular system.
Ventricular fold, false vocal cord, a fold of mucous membrane on either wall of the larynx above the true vocal cord; it is concerned little, if at all, in voice production.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word plica ventricularis originates from Latin.
- Plica is derived from the Latin verb plicare, which means to fold or to bend. In medical terminology, plica refers to a fold or a ridge in an organ or tissue.
- Ventricularis comes from the Latin word ventriculus, meaning a small belly or a small cavity. In anatomy, ventriculus specifically refers to one of the hollow cavities in the body, such as the ventricles of the brain or the lower chambers of the heart.
Therefore, plica ventricularis can be roughly translated as a fold or ridge in the ventricle.