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Duplication of optic canals in human skulls
R Choudhry1, S Choudhry, C Anand
1Department of Anatomy, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, India.
Journal of Anatomy
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Three human skulls exhibited duplicated optic canals, with two showing bilateral duplication and one unilateral. These anatomical variations, featuring septa and increased bone formation, occurred within normal canal size ranges.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Osteology
- Human Morphology
Background:
- The optic canal transmits the optic nerve and ophthalmic artery.
- Variations in cranial foramina can have clinical implications.
- Duplication of the optic canal is a rare anatomical finding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and describe three cases of duplicated optic canals in human skulls.
- To document the morphological characteristics of these rare anatomical variations.
Main Methods:
- Macroscopic examination of three human skulls.
- Detailed observation and measurement of the optic canals and associated structures.
Main Results:
- Three human skulls presented with optic canal duplication.
- Two skulls showed bilateral duplication; one skull had unilateral duplication.
- Variable septa thickness separated canals; excessive bone formation was noted. Canal measurements remained within normal ranges.
Conclusions:
- Optic canal duplication is a rare but documented anatomical variation.
- This finding highlights the importance of recognizing anatomical variations in the skull base.
- Further research may elucidate the developmental or clinical significance of this anomaly.