External occipital protuberance

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== External Occipital Protuberance ==

The external occipital protuberance (EOP) is a prominent anatomical feature located on the occipital bone of the human skull. It is a midline bony prominence situated at the lower part of the occipital bone, which is part of the cranium.

Anatomy

The external occipital protuberance is found at the intersection of the superior nuchal line and the external occipital crest. It serves as an important landmark for various anatomical structures and is palpable through the skin. The EOP is more pronounced in males than in females, which can be attributed to differences in muscle attachment and bone structure.

Function

The primary function of the external occipital protuberance is to serve as an attachment point for the ligamentum nuchae and the trapezius muscle. The ligamentum nuchae is a significant ligament that extends from the EOP to the cervical vertebrae, providing support to the head and neck. The trapezius muscle, which is a large superficial muscle of the back, also attaches to the EOP and plays a crucial role in the movement and stabilization of the scapula.

Clinical Significance

The external occipital protuberance can be used as a reference point in various medical and anatomical procedures. It is often used in the assessment of head injuries and in the alignment of the head and neck during medical imaging. Additionally, the prominence of the EOP can be an indicator of certain medical conditions, such as Paget's disease of bone.

Related Structures

• Occipital bone
• Superior nuchal line
• External occipital crest
• Ligamentum nuchae
• Trapezius muscle
• Cervical vertebrae
• Scapula

See Also

• Human skull
• Cranium
• Anatomical terms of bone