How Do You Spell WORMIAN BONE?

Pronunciation: [wˈɜːmi͡ən bˈə͡ʊn] (IPA)

The term "Wormian bone" refers to small bones found in the human skull that are not part of the standard cranial bones. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈwɔːmɪən/ (WOR-mee-ən) for the first part and /boʊn/ (bohn) for the second part. The word is named after the Danish anatomist Ole Worm, who initially described these bones in the 17th century. While they are not necessary for the functioning of the skull, they can indicate certain medical conditions when present.

WORMIAN BONE Meaning and Definition

1. Wormian bone, also known as sutural bone or intra-sutural bone, is an anatomical term used to describe additional small bone pieces that occur within the sutures of the skull. Unlike the regular cranial bones, which are large and well-defined, Wormian bones are smaller, irregularly shaped, and often isolated within the suture lines. These bones are commonly found in the cranium, particularly in the skull's vault region.

   Wormian bones are considered to be accessory bones, meaning they are not a part of the typical skeletal development. Instead, they arise due to various factors, including genetic and environmental influences. These bones mainly form as a result of genetic abnormalities or conditions affecting bone growth and development, such as cleidocranial dysplasia or osteogenesis imperfecta.

   The precise function of Wormian bones is not fully understood, although they are thought to serve as compensatory structures that help reinforce the skull's integrity and resilience. In instances where the regular cranial bones fail to fully fuse or are weakened, these additional bones provide extra support. They can also play a role in buffering against impacts and protecting vital structures within the skull.

   While Wormian bones are typically harmless and benign, their presence can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition or genetic disorder. Therefore, their identification during radiographic analysis or anatomical examinations can be useful in diagnosing certain conditions and guiding appropriate medical management.

2. See Wormian.

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

Common Misspellings for WORMIAN BONE

• qormian bone
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• eormian bone
• 3ormian bone
• 2ormian bone
• wirmian bone
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• wornian bone

Etymology of WORMIAN BONE

The term "Wormian bone" is named after the Danish anatomist Ole Worm, who lived from 1588 to 1654. He is recognized for his studies in the field of osteology (study of bones) and anatomy. Worm first described these small extra bones that are occasionally found within the cranial sutures in his work "Museum Wormianum" published in 1655, after his death. These bones are also known as sutural or intra-sutural bones and are named in honor of Ole Worm's contributions to the field.