Otolithic membrane

Otolithic Membrane

The Otolithic Membrane is a structure found in the vestibular system of the inner ear. It plays a crucial role in the body's sense of balance and spatial orientation. The otolithic membrane is part of the saccule and utricle, which are two of the three parts of the vestibule of the inner ear.

Structure

The otolithic membrane is a gelatinous layer located on the surface of the sensory epithelium of the saccule and utricle. It contains calcium carbonate crystals, known as otoliths or "ear stones", which are embedded in a gelatinous matrix. The otoliths are denser than the surrounding fluid, which allows them to respond to changes in the body's position relative to gravity.

Function

The primary function of the otolithic membrane is to detect changes in the body's position and movement. When the head moves, the otoliths shift position, causing the otolithic membrane to bend the underlying sensory hair cells. This bending triggers an electrical signal that is sent to the brain via the vestibular nerve. The brain then interprets this signal to determine the body's orientation in space.

Clinical Significance

Disorders of the otolithic membrane can lead to a variety of balance and spatial orientation problems, including vertigo, dizziness, and balance disorders. One such disorder is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is caused by the displacement of otoliths from the otolithic membrane.

See Also

• Vestibular system
• Inner ear
• Saccule and utricle
• Vestibule (ear)

References

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  Balance Disorder Illustration

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  Otoliths with Cross Section