adnexa
Noun: 1. Accessory or adjoining anatomical parts or appendages to an organ: In anatomy, "adnexa" refers to the structures or tissues that are attached to or lie next to a primary organ. This term is most commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in gynecology and embryology.
The word "adnexa" is a specialized medical term. It is almost always used in a plural sense, even though it appears singular, to refer collectively to a group of associated structures. * It is most frequently used with a possessive or descriptive phrase to specify the primary organ (e.g., uterine adnexa, adnexa of the eye). * In clinical practice, "the adnexa" often implicitly refers to the uterine adnexa.
- In a medical textbook: "During the examination, the doctor palpated the adnexa to check for any masses or tenderness."
- In a diagnosis: "The ultrasound revealed a cyst in the right adnexa."
- Specifying the organ: "The adnexa of the uterus include the Fallopian tubes, ovaries, and supporting ligaments."
- Adnexal (adjective): The related adjective form, meaning "pertaining to the adnexa."
- Example: "The patient was diagnosed with an adnexal mass, which required further investigation."
- Adnexal (adj.): Of or relating to adnexa.
- Annexa: A less common variant spelling with the same meaning.
- Appendages
- Accessory structures
- Adjoining parts
The core meaning is consistently anatomical. While the reference context mentions "especially of the embryo," in modern clinical usage, it is applied to organs at all stages of life. The most common specific application is to the uterine adnexa (Fallopian tubes and ovaries). Other examples include the adnexa of the eye (eyelids, tear glands) and skin adnexa (hair follicles, sweat glands).
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accessory or adjoining anatomical parts or appendages to an organ (especially of the embryo)
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Fallopian tubes and ovaries are adnexa of the uterus
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