The correct spelling of "vasa chylifera" is pronounced as /ˈveɪsə kʌɪlɪˈfɛrə/. It is a Latin term that refers to the lymph vessels present in the lining of the small intestine, which are responsible for absorbing digested fats and transporting them to the liver. The word is derived from the Latin words "vasa" means vessels and "chylifera" means carrying chyle. Accurate spelling is essential in the medical field to avoid misunderstandings and mistakes.
Vasa chylifera refers to a set of delicate, thread-like lymphatic vessels involved in the transportation and absorption of chyle - a milky fluid rich in fats and nutrients - within the body. The term "vasa" is a Latin word meaning "vessels," while "chylifera" is derived from "chylos" (milky fluid) and "ferre" (to bear or carry).
Specifically, the vasa chylifera are responsible for the drainage and distribution of chyle throughout the lymphatic system. They originate in the small intestinal region called the lacteals, which are specialized lymphatic capillaries found in the intestinal villi. These tiny vessels collect dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digested food in the small intestines.
The vasa chylifera, being part of the lymphatic system, extend from the lacteals and gradually merge into larger lymphatic vessels called lymphatic trunks. These trunks eventually combine to form the main lymphatic channels of the body, such as the thoracic duct and the right lymphatic duct, which ultimately drain into the bloodstream near the heart. Through this intricate network of vessels, the vasa chylifera ensure that chyle is properly absorbed, mixed, and delivered for further processing and distribution within the body.
Understanding the role of vasa chylifera is essential in comprehending the processes of digestion, nutrient absorption, and the function of the lymphatic system.
Lacteals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "vasa chylifera" is derived from Latin. Here is the breakdown:
- "Vasa" comes from the Latin word "vasum", which means vessel, container, or duct.
- "Chylifera" is derived from the Latin word "chylus" meaning chyle (a milky fluid consisting of lymph and emulsified fats) and "fera" meaning to bear or carry.
Therefore, "vasa chylifera" literally translates to "chylifera vessels" and refers to the vessels or ducts that carry chyle in the lymphatic system.