Anterior mediastinum
Anterior Mediastinum
The Anterior Mediastinum (pronounced: an-TEER-ee-or me-dee-uh-STY-num) is a region of the thorax that is situated at the front part of the mediastinum, one of the divisions of the thoracic cavity.
Etymology
The term "Anterior Mediastinum" is derived from the Latin words 'ante' meaning 'before' and 'medius' meaning 'middle'. Thus, it refers to the area in the middle of the chest, towards the front.
Anatomy
The Anterior Mediastinum is bordered anteriorly by the sternum, posteriorly by the pericardium and the brachiocephalic veins, superiorly by the thoracic inlet, and inferiorly by the diaphragm. It contains several important anatomical structures including the thymus, lymph nodes, fat, and connective tissue.
Related Terms
- Mediastinum: The central compartment of the thoracic cavity surrounded by loose connective tissue. It is divided into three parts: anterior, middle, and posterior.
- Thymus: A specialized primary lymphoid organ of the immune system located in the Anterior Mediastinum.
- Thorax: The region of the body forming a cavity that houses the heart and lungs.
- Pericardium: The double-walled sac containing the heart and the roots of the great vessels.
- Brachiocephalic veins: These are major veins returning blood to the heart from the upper limbs, neck, and head.
- Diaphragm: A sheet of internal skeletal muscle that extends across the bottom of the thoracic cavity, separating it from the abdominal cavity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anterior mediastinum
- Wikipedia's article - Anterior mediastinum
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