Ductus cochlearis

Ductus cochlearis (also known as scala media) is a fluid-filled cavity inside the cochlea of the inner ear that plays a crucial role in the transduction of sound. It is filled with a fluid called endolymph, which is different in composition to the perilymph that fills the other cavities of the inner ear.

Anatomy

The ductus cochlearis is a triangular tube that spirals along the bony cochlea for about 2.5 turns. It is separated from the scala vestibuli by Reissner's membrane and from the scala tympani by the basilar membrane. The ductus cochlearis is filled with endolymph, which is secreted by the stria vascularis, a richly vascularized region on the outer wall of the ductus cochlearis.

Function

The primary function of the ductus cochlearis is to convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. This is achieved through the organ of Corti, which is located on the basilar membrane within the ductus cochlearis. The organ of Corti contains hair cells that are stimulated by sound vibrations, causing them to release neurotransmitters that trigger nerve impulses in the spiral ganglion neurons.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the ductus cochlearis can lead to hearing loss. For example, Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that is thought to be caused by an excess of endolymph in the ductus cochlearis. This can cause symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.

See also

• Cochlea
• Inner ear
• Organ of Corti
• Meniere's disease

References

Ductus cochlearis Resources
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