Craniopharyngeal canal
Craniopharyngeal Canal
Craniopharyngeal canal (/ˌkreɪnioʊfəˈrɪndʒiəl kəˈnæl/) is a narrow, tube-like structure in the skull that connects the nasopharynx to the sphenoid bone. It is a rare anatomical variant and is often associated with certain medical conditions such as craniopharyngioma and meningocele.
Etymology
The term "craniopharyngeal canal" is derived from the Greek words "kranion" (skull), "pharynx" (throat), and "kanali" (canal). It refers to the canal's location and function in the skull and throat.
Anatomy
The craniopharyngeal canal is located in the sphenoid bone, one of the seven bones that make up the orbit. It runs from the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose, to the sphenoid bone. The canal is typically less than 2 mm in diameter.
Clinical Significance
The presence of a craniopharyngeal canal is often associated with certain medical conditions. These include craniopharyngioma, a benign tumor that can cause hormonal imbalances and vision problems, and meningocele, a type of spina bifida where the meninges protrude through a defect in the skull or spine.
Related Terms
- Craniopharyngioma: A benign tumor that develops near the brain's pituitary gland.
- Meningocele: A type of spina bifida where the meninges protrude through a defect in the skull or spine.
- Sphenoid bone: A bone located at the base of the skull in front of the temporal bone and basilar part of the occipital bone.
- Nasopharynx: The upper part of the throat behind the nose.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Craniopharyngeal canal
- Wikipedia's article - Craniopharyngeal canal
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