LEPTOMENINGES Meaning and
Definition
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Leptomeninges is a term used in anatomy and medicine to refer to the thin, delicate membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is derived from the Latin words "lepto" meaning "thin" or "delicate" and "meninges" meaning "membranes." Also known as the pia-arachnoid, the leptomeninges consist of two main layers: the pia mater and the arachnoid mater.
The pia mater is the innermost layer, and it is a thin, transparent membrane that directly adheres to the surface of the brain and spinal cord, following its convolutions and contours. The pia mater contains a network of blood vessels that help nourish the central nervous system.
The arachnoid mater lies just beneath the dura mater, another layer of protective membrane. It is called arachnoid due to its spiderweb-like appearance, which is caused by the presence of delicate fibers extending between the pia mater and dura mater. These fibers create a space known as the subarachnoid space, which contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that helps cushion and protect the brain and spinal cord.
Together, the pia mater and arachnoid mater form a continuous lining that completely envelops the brain and spinal cord, providing a protective barrier against injury and infection.
Understanding the structure and function of the leptomeninges is crucial in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the central nervous system, such as infections, hemorrhages, and tumors.
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Arachnopia, piarachnoid, the pia mater and arachnoid considered as one membrane.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LEPTOMENINGES
- keptomeninges
- peptomeninges
- oeptomeninges
- lwptomeninges
- lsptomeninges
- ldptomeninges
- lrptomeninges
- l4ptomeninges
- l3ptomeninges
- leotomeninges
- leltomeninges
- le-tomeninges
- le0tomeninges
- lepromeninges
- lepfomeninges
- lepgomeninges
- lepyomeninges
- lep6omeninges
- lep5omeninges
Etymology of LEPTOMENINGES
The word "leptomeninges" consists of two root words: "lepto-" and "meninges".
1. "Lepto-" is derived from the Greek word "leptos", which means "thin" or "fine".
2. "Meninges" is derived from the Greek word "meninx", meaning "membrane" or "cover".
When combined, "leptomeninges" refers to the two innermost protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, which are relatively thin compared to the outer dura mater.
Similar spelling words for LEPTOMENINGES
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