AXILLARY LINE Meaning and
Definition
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The axillary line refers to an anatomical reference point on the human body. It is a vertical line that runs down the side of the torso, extending from the armpit (axilla) to the upper thigh region. The axillary line is formed by the fold of skin that connects the arm to the trunk.
The primary purpose of the axillary line is to assist in identifying specific anatomical landmarks for medical examination and diagnosis. It is commonly used in various medical fields including anatomy, surgery, and radiology. For instance, during a physical examination, physicians may use the axillary line as a reference point to assess the position and health of organs located on the side of the body.
In surgery, the axillary line serves as an important guide for incisions or the placement of medical devices such as drains or catheters. Additionally, it can be a key anatomical reference for surgeons performing procedures in the thoracic or abdominal regions.
Radiologists also utilize the axillary line to interpret X-rays, CT scans, or MRI images. It helps them to accurately identify and assess abnormalities or pathologies within the chest, abdominal, or pelvic regions.
Understanding the axillary line is essential for healthcare professionals as it assists in proper anatomical identification, clinical evaluation, procedural planning, and accurate interpretation of medical imaging.
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• An imaginary line passing from the highest point of the axillary fossa vertically downward.
• One of three perpendicular lines used as guides in physical diagnosis; the anterior passes through the anterior fold, and the posterior through the posterior fold, while the midaxillary line passes through the center of the axillary space.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for AXILLARY LINE
- axillary lioe
- axillary linu
- axillary linm
- axillary lina
- axillary ling
- axeillaryline
- axillarylinne
- a xillary line
- ax illary line
- axi llary line
- axil lary line
- axill ary line
- axilla ry line
- axillar y line
- axillary l ine
- axillary li ne
- axillary lin e
Etymology of AXILLARY LINE
The word "axillary" originates from the Latin word "axilla", which means "armpit". The term "axillary line" refers to an anatomical line or reference point that extends from the armpit region. The term "line" comes from the Old English word "līne", which means "a rope, a row". Therefore, the etymology of "axillary line" combines the Latin word "axilla" and the Old English word "line" to describe a line or reference point in relation to the armpit.
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