MAMMARY LINE Meaning and
Definition
-
The mammary line is an anatomical term used to describe a line, ridge, or groove on the surface of the human body that demarcates the developmental pathway of the mammary glands. Also referred to as the milk line or mammary ridge, it starts from the axilla (armpit) region and extends down towards the groin area on both sides of the body. This bilateral line forms during embryonic development, commonly seen during the fifth to sixth week of gestation.
The mammary line serves as a key marker for the formation of the mammary glands in mammals. In females, this area will continue to develop and give rise to breasts during puberty, while in males it usually remains rudimentary. The mammary line, therefore, represents the potential site for milk production and lactation in females.
Clinically, knowledge of the mammary line is important in various medical fields such as breast surgery and plastic surgery. It helps in understanding the normal distribution and variations of breast tissue and can aid in the evaluation and diagnosis of certain breast conditions. Additionally, the mammary line is sometimes considered when planning surgical interventions, such as breast augmentation or reduction, as it provides a guide for optimal incision placement.
Overall, the mammary line is a significant anatomical feature that indicates the location and route of the mammary glands' development, playing a crucial role in the biological and medical aspects of the human body.
-
A transverse line drawn between the two nipples.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MAMMARY LINE
- mammary li.e
- mammary life
- mammary lile
- mammary lioe
- mammary linu
- mammary linm
- mammary lina
- mammary ling
- mammarylinne
- m ammary line
- ma mmary line
- mam mary line
- mamm ary line
- mamma ry line
- mammar y line
- mammary l ine
- mammary li ne
- mammary lin e
Etymology of MAMMARY LINE
The term "mammary line" is composed of two parts: "mammary" and "line".
The word "mammary" comes from the Latin term "mamma", which means "breast". It has been used in English since the early 18th century to refer to anything related to the mammalian mammary gland or breast.
The word "line" originates from the Latin word "linea", which means "a string, cord, or line". It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a straight geometric figure.
Therefore, the etymology of "mammary line" stems from the Latin "mamma" and "linea", combining to describe the anatomical line or string-like appearance on the human body where the mammary glands are typically found.
