CERUMINOUS GLAND Meaning and
Definition
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A ceruminous gland is a specialized type of exocrine gland found in the skin of the ear canal. These glands are responsible for producing a waxy substance called cerumen, commonly known as earwax. Ceruminous glands are unique to the external auditory meatus, the tube-like structure leading from the outer ear to the middle ear.
The primary function of ceruminous glands is to secrete cerumen, which serves several important purposes. Firstly, cerumen helps to protect the delicate structures of the ear from foreign particles, such as dust, debris, and insects. It forms a protective barrier that prevents these substances from reaching the deeper parts of the ear, where they can cause damage or irritation.
Additionally, cerumen assists in maintaining the moisture and pH balance of the ear canal, preventing dryness and inflammation. It also possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms in the ear.
The composition of cerumen varies among individuals but commonly consists of a combination of dead skin cells, hair, sebum, and secretions from the ceruminous glands. It may appear in different colors and consistencies, ranging from soft and light-colored to dark and dry.
If the ceruminous glands become overactive or blocked, excessive earwax production may occur, leading to a buildup of cerumen in the ear canal. This can cause temporary hearing loss, earache, itching, and discomfort. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the ears, through methods such as ear irrigation or use of ear drops, can help to prevent such issues.
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One of the glands in the auditory meatus which secrete the cerumen.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CERUMINOUS GLAND
- xeruminous gland
- veruminous gland
- feruminous gland
- deruminous gland
- cwruminous gland
- csruminous gland
- cdruminous gland
- crruminous gland
- c4ruminous gland
- c3ruminous gland
- ceeuminous gland
- ceduminous gland
- cefuminous gland
- cetuminous gland
- ce5uminous gland
- ce4uminous gland
- ceryminous gland
- cerhminous gland
- cerjminous gland
- ceriminous gland
Etymology of CERUMINOUS GLAND
The word "ceruminous gland" is composed of two main components: "ceruminous" and "gland".
- "Ceruminous" comes from the Latin word "cērumen", which means "earwax". The Latin word itself is derived from "cērus", meaning "wax". This term refers specifically to the wax-like substance secreted by the glands.
- "Gland" comes from the Latin word "glāndula", which means "gland".
Putting it together, "ceruminous gland" refers to the gland responsible for the production of earwax, which is the sticky substance found in the ear canals.
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