How Do You Spell NERVUS MASSETERICUS?

1. Nervus massetericus, also known as the masseteric nerve, is a peripheral nerve that plays a crucial role in the innervation of the masseter muscle. It is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve, specifically arising from the trigeminal ganglion.

   The masseteric nerve emerges from the middle cranial fossa through the foramen ovale, along with other mandibular division nerves. It then descends downwards, piercing through the deep surface of the lateral pterygoid muscle. Upon exiting the lateral pterygoid muscle, the nerve splits into motor and sensory branches.

   The motor branch of the nervus massetericus supplies the masseter muscle, a powerful jaw-closing muscle responsible for chewing. It enables the movement of the jaw, allowing it to close and exert force during mastication. The masseter muscle is readily palpable at the angle of the jaw, and its contraction contributes to the clenched or tense feeling that occurs during times of stress or anxiety.

   The sensory branch of the nervus massetericus provides sensory innervation to the skin overlying the masseter muscle, specifically the lower part of the face and jaw. It enables the perception of touch, temperature, and pain in this region.

   Damage or dysfunction to the nervus massetericus can result in various clinical manifestations, including weakness or paralysis of the masseter muscle, leading to difficulty in chewing and closing the jaw properly. Additionally, sensory disturbances or pain in the lower face and jaw region may also occur.

2. Masseteric nerve, a motor branch of the masticatorius passing to the internal surface of the masseter muscle which it supplies.

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

Common Misspellings for NERVUS MASSETERICUS

The word "nervus massetericus" is a Latin term that combines two elements: "nervus" and "massetericus".

1. Nervus: The Latin word "nervus" translates to "nerve" in English. It stems from the Proto-Indo-European root "*snē̆h₁-", meaning "sinew, tendon", and has later developed into various related terms in different languages.

2. Massetericus: The word "massetericus" is an adjective derived from the noun "masseter". The term "masseter" originates from the Greek word "massētḗr", which refers to a specific muscle involved in chewing. In Latin, the "-icus" suffix is added to create an adjective form.