Parietal foramen

The Parietal Foramen is a small opening in the skull that is located near the junction of the sagittal suture and lambdoid suture. It is also known as the parietal eye or third eye in some animals.

Etymology

The term "Parietal Foramen" is derived from the Latin word "paries" which means "wall". The term "foramen" is derived from the Latin word "forare" which means "to bore" or "to pierce".

Anatomy

The Parietal Foramen is usually present on both sides of the skull. It allows for the passage of the emissary veins which connect the superior sagittal sinus with the veins of the scalp. The size and presence of the Parietal Foramen can vary greatly. In some cases, it may be absent altogether.

Clinical Significance

The size and presence of the Parietal Foramen can have clinical significance. It can be used as a landmark in surgical procedures involving the skull. In some cases, an unusually large Parietal Foramen may be associated with certain medical conditions such as Cleidocranial dysostosis.

Related Terms

• Foramen
• Skull
• Sagittal suture
• Lambdoid suture
• Emissary veins
• Superior sagittal sinus
• Cleidocranial dysostosis

See Also

• List of human anatomical features
• List of bones of the human skeleton