MEATAL CARTILAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Meatal cartilage refers to a small cartilaginous structure that forms part of the opening of certain bodily cavities, particularly the ear and the urethra. Specifically, it refers to the cartilage found at the opening of the external auditory meatus and the external urethral meatus.
In the case of the ear, the meatal cartilage is located at the entrance of the ear canal. It is composed of a thin, flexible cartilaginous tissue that helps to maintain the stability and shape of the ear canal. The meatal cartilage acts as a protective barrier, preventing the entry of foreign particles into the ear and safeguarding delicate structures within the ear.
Concerning the urethra, the meatal cartilage is situated at the external opening of the urinary tract. It forms part of the male and female external genitalia. In males, it surrounds the opening of the urethra at the tip of the penis, while in females, it encloses the urethral orifice below the clitoris. The meatal cartilage aids in maintaining the structure and function of the urethral opening, assisting in directing the flow of urine.
Overall, the meatal cartilage serves important functions in both the ear and the urethra. Its presence contributes to the protection and proper functioning of these vital bodily structures.
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The cartilaginous portion of the external auditory meatus formed by the internal prolongation of the auricular c.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MEATAL CARTILAGE
- meatal cartilagm
- meatal cartilaga
- meatal cartilagg
- meetalcartilage
- m eatal cartilage
- me atal cartilage
- mea tal cartilage
- meat al cartilage
- meata l cartilage
- meatal c artilage
- meatal ca rtilage
- meatal car tilage
- meatal cart ilage
- meatal carti lage
- meatal cartil age
- meatal cartila ge
- meatal cartilag e
Etymology of MEATAL CARTILAGE
The word "meatal cartilage" is derived from two different sources: "meatal" and "cartilage".
1. Meatal: The term "meatal" comes from the Latin word "meatus", which means a passage or an opening. It is ultimately derived from the Latin verb "meare", meaning "to go through" or "to pass". In medicine, "meatal" refers to structures associated with body openings or passages.
2. Cartilage: The word "cartilage" has its roots in the Latin word "cartilago", which refers to firm, flexible connective tissue. It is believed to be derived from the Greek word "kárdia", meaning "heart", as cartilage was once associated with the heart due to its similar texture and color. Cartilage refers to a type of connective tissue, softer than bone, which provides structure and support to various parts of the body.
