AURICULAR CARTILAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Auricular cartilage refers to the specialized type of cartilage found in the external ears, also known as the auricles or pinnae. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and structure of the ears, providing support and flexibility.
Auricular cartilage is a firm and elastic connective tissue composed of chondrocytes, collagen fibers, and proteoglycans. Chondrocytes are the cells responsible for producing and maintaining the extracellular matrix within the cartilage. Collagen fibers provide strength and structural integrity to the tissue, while proteoglycans contribute to its resilience and shock-absorbing properties.
The auricular cartilage is distinctive in its shape, as it is molded into a series of ridges and folds that contribute to the characteristic appearance of the external ear. It is softer and more pliable than other types of cartilage in the body, allowing for a greater range of motion and flexibility, which is vital for sound localization and collecting sound waves.
This type of cartilage is avascular, meaning it lacks blood vessels, and its cells rely on diffusion for nutrient exchange. This low vascularity also contributes to its limited regenerative capacity in case of injury or damage.
Overall, the auricular cartilage is an essential component of the external ear, conferring shape, support, and flexibility, while also enabling the collection and transmission of sound waves for auditory perception.
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The the cartilage of the concha or auricle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for AURICULAR CARTILAGE
- auricular cartilaga
- auricular cartilagg
- a uricular cartilage
- au ricular cartilage
- aur icular cartilage
- auri cular cartilage
- auric ular cartilage
- auricu lar cartilage
- auricul ar cartilage
- auricula r cartilage
- auricular c artilage
- auricular ca rtilage
- auricular car tilage
- auricular cart ilage
- auricular carti lage
- auricular cartil age
- auricular cartila ge
- auricular cartilag e
Etymology of AURICULAR CARTILAGE
The word "auricular" originates from the Latin term "auricula", which means "ear". The term "cartilage" comes from the Latin word "cartilago", which refers to "gristle" or "a small bone". Therefore, the etymology of "auricular cartilage" can be understood as the combination of "auricula" (ear) and "cartilage" (gristle or a small bone).
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