How Do You Spell MEMBRANA FLACCIDA?

1. Membrana flaccida, also known as Shrapnell's membrane, is a term used in anatomy to describe a thin and delicate part of the human ear located in the middle ear cavity. It is named after Henry Shrapnell, a British Army officer who first described this structure's anatomy in 1853.

   The membrana flaccida can be found on the lateral upper wall of the middle ear space, specifically in the region known as the attic or epitympanic recess. It is comprised of a thin layer of tissue that is flaccid, or loose, compared to the surrounding structures within the ear.

   This structure is different from the main portion of the eardrum, called the tympanic membrane, which is thicker and more taut. However, the membrana flaccida is connected and continuous with the tympanic membrane.

   The main function of the membrana flaccida is to facilitate equalization of pressure between the middle ear and the external environment through its minimal tissue thickness and ease of movement. It is also involved in sound transmission and protection of the middle ear space.

   In certain medical conditions, such as chronic otitis media or a tympanic membrane perforation, the membrana flaccida can become susceptible to infections or damage. This can lead to hearing problems or other complications requiring medical intervention.

2. Flaccid membrane, Shrapnell's membrane.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MEMBRANA FLACCIDA

The term membrana flaccida is derived from Latin. Membrana translates to membrane in English, and flaccida translates to flabby or floppy.