Transverse muscle of auricle

Illustration of the anatomy of the human ear, with the transverse muscle of auricle labeled at center.

The Transverse muscle of auricle is a small muscle located in the outer ear, specifically in the pinna. It is one of the few muscles in the human body that is not directly connected to bone. This muscle plays a minor role in the movement of the ear, and its function varies among individuals.

Anatomy

The transverse muscle of auricle is a thin, flattened muscle that stretches across the helix of the ear. It originates from the eminentia conchae, an eminence at the front of the concha, and inserts into the anterior margin of the helix.

Function

The function of the transverse muscle of auricle is not well understood, as it does not appear to have a significant role in the movement of the ear. Some researchers suggest that it may help in adjusting the shape of the ear for better sound localization, but this is not universally accepted.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the transverse muscle of auricle can result in a limited ability to move the ear, or in some cases, an inability to move the ear at all. However, because humans do not rely heavily on ear movement for sound localization, these conditions are typically not debilitating.

See also

• Auricular muscles
• Superior auricular muscle
• Inferior auricular muscle
• Oblique muscle of auricle