TIGROID SPINDLE Meaning and
Definition
-
A tigroid spindle refers to a distinct pattern observed in certain cell structures that resemble a spindle shape and display a tiger-like appearance. The term "tigroid" originates from the combination of the words "tiger" and "oid," meaning "resembling." The tigroid spindle pattern, typically observed through microscopy or imaging techniques, is recognized by its tiger-like striped appearance.
In biology and medicine, the tigroid spindle pattern most commonly refers to the observation of certain structures within cells, such as nerve cells or glial cells. These structures present with alternating light and dark bands resembling stripes, similar to the coat pattern of a tiger. The tigroid spindle pattern is often observed in specialized regions of the brain, particularly the white matter, where nerve fibers are densely bundled.
The appearance of tigroid spindles within the brain may have physiological significance, as they are believed to correspond to specific functions and structures of the nervous system. The pattern can be indicative of myelination, a process where nerve fibers are coated with myelin, a fatty substance that facilitates efficient signal transmission. The presence of tigroid spindles may suggest the presence of organized myelin sheaths, which play a crucial role in enabling rapid and coordinated communication between neurons.
Overall, the tigroid spindle pattern is a distinctive visual characteristic identified in certain cells, particularly in the brain's white matter, characterized by tiger-like stripes. Its presence typically indicates the organization of myelinated nerve fibers and potentially highlights important features of the nervous system's function and structure.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TIGROID SPINDLE
Etymology of TIGROID SPINDLE
The term "tigroid spindle" is a medical term that refers to a pattern observed in cells during microscopic examination. It is not a common word used in everyday language, thus its etymology is relatively straightforward.
The word "tigroid" originates from the Latin word "tigris", meaning tiger. It is derived from the characteristic striped pattern found on the fur of a tiger. The term "tigroid" is used in medicine to describe a pattern resembling these stripes.
The word "spindle" is derived from the Old English word "spindel", which refers to a rod or pin used in spinning thread or yarn. In biology and cell biology, a spindle is used to describe a structure formed during cell division that helps separate chromosomes.
