How Do You Spell PARAGANGLION?

1. A paraganglion is a specialized cluster of neuroendocrine cells that belongs to the autonomic nervous system. It is typically found near blood vessels and nerves in various locations throughout the body. Paraganglia can be categorically classified into two types: chromaffin paraganglia and nonchromaffin paraganglia.

   Chromaffin paraganglia are primarily associated with the adrenal glands. These paraganglia produce and release catecholamines, including adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine), into the bloodstream. The adrenaline released by chromaffin paraganglia helps to regulate various physiological processes, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and the body's stress response.

   Nonchromaffin paraganglia, on the other hand, are scattered throughout the body and are mainly involved in regulating local blood flow. They assist in the control of vascular tone and play a role in monitoring oxygen and pH levels in the blood. Nonchromaffin paraganglia are found in the carotid body, aortic body, glomus jugulare, glomus vagale, and other locations within the body.

   Paraganglia tumors, also known as paragangliomas, may develop from these neuroendocrine cells. These tumors are typically benign but can become malignant in rare cases. Paragangliomas can cause symptoms such as hypertension, palpitations, headaches, and other associated complications. Surgical removal or other treatment options may be necessary to manage paraganglion tumors, depending on their size and location.

2. 1. Any structure in the neighborhood of, or supplementing, a ganglion. 2. One of the cells in the medullary portion of an adrenal body. 3. The medullary portion of an adrenal body.

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

Common Misspellings for PARAGANGLION

The word "paraganglion" is derived from the combination of two root words, "para-" and "ganglion".

1. "Para-" comes from the Greek prefix "παρά" (para), which means "beside" or "near". It is commonly used in many medical terms to indicate something located adjacent to or alongside a specific structure.

2. "Ganglion" is a Greek word meaning "knot" or "swelling". In anatomy, it refers to a group of nerve cells or neurons that are closely packed together and have a similar function. Ganglia are responsible for various important functions in the nervous system.

Therefore, when combined, "paraganglion" literally means "something located near or beside a ganglion". This term is often used to refer to specialized tissue structures found alongside certain autonomic ganglia, particularly in the head, neck, and abdomen.