How Do You Spell COSTAL ANGLE?

1. Costal angle is a term used in anatomy to describe the angle formed by the meeting of the ribs at the front of the chest. Specifically, it refers to the acute angle created by the junction of the lower border of the sternum (breastbone) and the 7th costal cartilage on either side of the body. This angle is formed due to the curvature of the ribs, particularly the posteriorly directed lower ribs.

   The costal angle serves as an important anatomical landmark for medical professionals, particularly those involved in physical examination techniques like percussion and auscultation. It provides valuable information about the underlying structures within the chest cavity, such as the position of the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels.

   In a normal healthy individual, the costal angle is relatively small, measuring around 90 to 120 degrees. However, certain medical conditions or pathological changes can cause the angle to become widened or altered. For example, an increased costal angle may indicate the presence of a larger heart (cardiomegaly), underlying lung disease, or pneumothorax (collapsed lung). Conversely, a decreased costal angle may be observed in individuals with conditions like kyphosis (excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine), scoliosis (sideways curvature of the spine), or barrel chest (enlargement of the lungs due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

   Overall, understanding the costal angle provides valuable insights into thoracic anatomy and helps healthcare professionals in assessing and diagnosing various medical conditions related to the chest.

2. The a. at which the lower border of the false ribs meets the axis of the sternum.

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

Common Misspellings for COSTAL ANGLE

The word "costal angle" is formed by combining two separate terms: "costal" and "angle".

1. Costal: The term "costal" is derived from the Latin word "costa" which means "rib". It specifically refers to anything related to the ribs. In anatomy, it is commonly used to describe structures and features that are associated with the ribs or the ribcage.

2. Angle: The word "angle" is derived from the Latin word "angulus", meaning a "corner" or an "angle". It refers to the space or area between two intersecting lines or surfaces, forming a corner or angle.

When combined, the term "costal angle" refers to the angle or curvature formed where the ribs meet or intersect, such as the angle formed between the ribs and the breastbone (sternum) in the human anatomy.