How Do You Spell PUNCTUM LACRIMALE?

Pronunciation: [pˈʌŋktəm lˈakɹɪmˌe͡ɪl] (IPA)

Punctum lacrimale is a Latin term used in anatomy to describe the small opening located in the inner corner of the eye that serves as a drainage point for tears. The spelling of this term is based on Latin pronunciation rules, with 'punctum' pronounced as /ˈpʌŋkt(ə)m/ and 'lacrimale' pronounced as /lækrɪˈmeɪli/. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to accurately represent the sounds of each individual letter in the spelling of this word. Understanding the phonetics of medical terminology is essential for clear communication between healthcare professionals.

PUNCTUM LACRIMALE Meaning and Definition

1. Punctum lacrimale refers to a small anatomical structure located on the inner margins of the eyelids in humans and various other animals. Also referred to as lacrimal punctum, it represents the external opening of the lacrimal canaliculi, which are narrow tubes responsible for draining the tears from the surface of the eyes into the lacrimal sac.

   The punctum lacrimale appears as a small, round or slit-like aperture, situated on the inner angles of the upper and lower eyelids. It serves as the entry point for tears, allowing them to be conveyed into the lacrimal canaliculi and subsequently drained into the nasolacrimal duct. By controlling the amount and flow of tears, the punctum lacrimale plays a crucial role in maintaining the moisture and lubrication necessary for the health of the eyes.

   Trauma, inflammation, or blockage of the punctum lacrimale can lead to a condition known as punctal stenosis or occlusion. In such cases, tears are unable to drain properly from the eyes, causing excessive tearing, discomfort, and potential risk of infection. Treatments for punctal stenosis may involve procedures to dilate or unblock the punctum lacrimale, ensuring the normal flow of tears.

   In summary, the punctum lacrimale serves as the gateway for tears to leave the eyes, facilitating drainage through the lacrimal canaliculi. Its proper functioning is essential for maintaining the eye's tear film and preventing excessive tearing.

2. Lacrymal punctum or opening, the minute circular opening of the lacrymal duct, on the margin of each eyelid near the inner commissure.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PUNCTUM LACRIMALE

• ounctum lacrimale
• lunctum lacrimale
• -unctum lacrimale
• 0unctum lacrimale
• pynctum lacrimale
• phnctum lacrimale
• pjnctum lacrimale
• pinctum lacrimale
• p8nctum lacrimale
• p7nctum lacrimale
• pubctum lacrimale
• pumctum lacrimale
• pujctum lacrimale
• puhctum lacrimale
• punxtum lacrimale
• punvtum lacrimale
• punftum lacrimale
• pundtum lacrimale
• puncrum lacrimale
• puncfum lacrimale

Etymology of PUNCTUM LACRIMALE

The etymology of the word "punctum lacrimale" can be traced back to Latin.

The word "punctum" in Latin means "point" or "dot". It comes from the verb "pungere", which means "to prick" or "to sting". In this context, "punctum" refers to a tiny opening or hole.

The term "lacrimale" comes from the Latin word "lacrima", meaning "tear". It is derived from the verb "lacrimare", which means "to weep" or "to shed tears". "Lacrimale" refers to something related to tears.

So, "punctum lacrimale" literally translates to "tear point" or "tear hole" in English, referring to the tiny opening or duct in the corner of the eye that drains tears into the nasal cavity.