Masseteric fascia

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Fascia masseterica)

Masseteric Fascia is a fibrous layer of connective tissue that covers the Masseter muscle. It is a part of the Superficial fascia and Deep fascia that are found throughout the human body. The Masseteric Fascia is located in the facial region, specifically in the cheek area.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Masseteric Fascia" is derived from the Greek words "másseter" meaning "chewer" and "fascia" which is Latin for "band". The name is thus indicative of its location and function, as it is associated with the Masseter muscle which is involved in the process of chewing.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Masseteric Fascia is a thin, aponeurotic membrane which is well-defined and covers the superficial surface of the Masseter muscle. It is continuous with the Parotid fascia and is attached above to the lower border of the Zygomatic arch, and below it blends with the platysma and the fascia covering the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the Masseteric Fascia is to hold the Masseter muscle in place, providing a smooth surface for the muscle to move against during the process of mastication. It also serves to protect the muscle and other underlying structures from injury.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Inflammation or injury to the Masseteric Fascia can lead to pain and difficulty in moving the jaw, a condition known as Trismus. This can be caused by various factors such as trauma, infection, or overuse of the muscle.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

  • Fascia: A band or sheet of connective tissue that covers, supports, and separates muscles and other internal organs.
  • Masseter muscle: A facial muscle that plays a major role in the chewing of solid foods.
  • Superficial fascia: The lowermost layer of the skin in nearly all of the regions of the body, that blends with the reticular dermis layer.
  • Deep fascia: The dense fibrous connective tissue that interpenetrates and surrounds the muscles, bones, nerves, and blood vessels of the body.
Masseteric fascia Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD