How Do You Spell DUCTUS THORACICUS?

1. Ductus thoracicus is a Latin term that translates to "thoracic duct" in English. It refers to the largest lymphatic vessel present in the human body. The ductus thoracicus plays a crucial role in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for maintaining fluid balance, immune response, and the transportation of fats.

   The ductus thoracicus originates in the abdomen from the cisterna chyli, which collects lymph from the intestinal trunk and lumbar trunks. It traverses through the diaphragm and ascends within the posterior mediastinum alongside the aorta and esophagus. As it ascends, the ductus thoracicus receives lymph from various regions, such as the lower limbs, abdominal organs, and left side of the thorax including the left arm.

   Upon reaching the root of the neck, the ductus thoracicus makes a sharp curve and terminates by emptying its lymph back into the bloodstream. Specifically, it drains into the junction between the left internal jugular and left subclavian veins.

   The ductus thoracicus not only transports lymph, but also aids in the absorption of dietary fats. It collects fat molecules, known as chylomicrons, from the intestines and mediates their transport into circulation via the bloodstream.

   In summary, the ductus thoracicus is a central component of the lymphatic system, responsible for maintaining immune function and fluid balance by conveying lymph and dietary fats to the bloodstream.

2. Thoracic duct, the largest lymph vessel in the body, beginning at the cisterna chyli at about the level of the umbilicus, passing upward through the aortic opening of the diaphragm and the posterior mediastinum, crossing from the right to the left of the vertebral column at the level of the fifth thoracic vertebra, and discharging into the left vena anonyma at theinner border of the scalenus muscle.

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

Common Misspellings for DUCTUS THORACICUS

The word "ductus thoracicus" has its etymology rooted in Latin.

- "Ductus" comes from the Latin word "ducere", which means "to lead" or "to guide". In this context, it refers to a duct or channel.

- "Thoracicus" is derived from the Latin word "thorax", meaning "chest". It refers to the region of the body encompassing the chest or upper trunk.

When combined, "ductus thoracicus" can be translated as "thoracic duct" in English, which is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body responsible for draining lymph from the lower body and left side of the upper body into the bloodstream.