ARACHNOID CANAL Meaning and
Definition
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The arachnoid canal is a term used in neuroanatomy to describe a narrow space located within the innermost layer of the meninges, known as the arachnoid mater. It is a tube-like structure running parallel to the spinal cord, extending from the base of the skull down to the sacrum region within the vertebral column. The arachnoid canal houses the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plays a crucial role in its circulation.
This canal is formed by the extension of the arachnoid membrane, which is one of the three protective layers covering the brain and spinal cord. It is located between the outermost dura mater and the innermost pia mater. The arachnoid mater is delicate and web-like in appearance, which gives it its name.
Functionally, the arachnoid canal serves as a pathway for the flow of CSF within the central nervous system. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the brain's ventricles and circulates throughout the subarachnoid space, which includes the arachnoid canal. It acts as a cushion, protecting the brain and spinal cord against physical trauma, and also serves to transport nutrients and remove waste products from neural tissues.
Pathological conditions that affect the arachnoid canal include arachnoiditis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the arachnoid membrane, leading to pain and neurological symptoms. Additionally, the arachnoid canal can be affected by congenital abnormalities or acquired conditions such as tumors, cysts, or developmental disorders.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ARACHNOID CANAL
- arachnoid cancl
- arachnoid canad
- arachnoid canah
- arachnoid canan
- arachnoid canam
- a rachnoid canal
- ar achnoid canal
- ara chnoid canal
- arac hnoid canal
- arach noid canal
- arachn oid canal
- arachno id canal
- arachnoi d canal
- arachnoid c anal
- arachnoid ca nal
- arachnoid can al
- arachnoid cana l
Etymology of ARACHNOID CANAL
The term "arachnoid canal" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
The word "arachnoid" derives from the Greek word "arakhne" meaning "spider". In anatomy, the term "arachnoid" refers to the delicate, web-like membrane that is situated between the dura mater (a tough membrane) and the pia mater (a thin, delicate membrane) in the brain and spinal cord.
On the other hand, the word "canal" originates from the Latin word "canalis", which translates to "tube" or "pipe". A canal, in medical terminology, typically refers to a natural or artificial tube-like structure, such as a passageway or channel.
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