Mastoid canaliculus

Mastoid Canaliculus

The Mastoid Canaliculus is a small canal in the temporal bone of the human skull. It is a part of the anatomy of the ear, specifically the middle ear and inner ear. The mastoid canaliculus is responsible for transmitting the auricular branch of the vagus nerve.

Etymology

The term "Mastoid Canaliculus" is derived from the Greek words "mastos" meaning "breast", and "oid" meaning "like", referring to the breast-like shape of the mastoid process. "Canaliculus" is a Latin term meaning "small canal".

Anatomy

The mastoid canaliculus begins at the jugular fossa, a depression in the base of the skull, and ascends to the mastoid process, a conical prominence of the temporal bone behind the ear. It is a small canal that houses the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, which provides sensory innervation to the skin of the ear canal and the eardrum.

Function

The primary function of the mastoid canaliculus is to transmit the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. This nerve branch plays a crucial role in transmitting sensory information from the ear to the brain. It is involved in the sensation of sound and balance.

Clinical Significance

Damage or disease affecting the mastoid canaliculus can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For instance, Mastoiditis, an infection of the mastoid bone, can potentially spread to the mastoid canaliculus and affect the function of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. This could result in symptoms such as dizziness, hearing loss, or tinnitus.

See Also

• Temporal bone
• Vagus nerve
• Mastoid process
• Mastoiditis

References

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