Syrinx

Syrinx is a term used in both medicine and zoology. In medicine, it refers to a fluid-filled cavity within the spinal cord (syringomyelia) or brain stem (syringobulbia). In zoology, it is the vocal organ of birds.

Medical Definition

In the field of neurology, a syrinx is a tube-like formation filled with fluid, often cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), that forms in the spinal cord or brain stem. This condition can occur due to various reasons, including trauma, tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The most common type of syrinx is a syringomyelia, which forms in the spinal cord. A syrinx in the brain stem is known as a syringobulbia.

Zoological Definition

In zoology, the syrinx is the vocal organ of birds. Located at the base of a bird's trachea, it produces sounds without the vocal cords that mammals use. The structure of the syrinx and the muscles surrounding it are complex and vary significantly in different species of birds.

See Also

• Syringomyelia
• Syringobulbia
• Bird vocalization

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  Pan pursuing Syrinx by Girodet-Trioson
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  Pan Pursuing Syrinx, LACMA
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  Pan and Syrinx by Jean-François de Troy