occipitomastoid

Occipitomastoid refers to the junction between the occipital bone and the mastoid part of the temporal bone, and to the suture that marks this articulation. It is typically described as the occipitomastoid suture, a fibrous joint between these two cranial bones.

Anatomically, the occipitomastoid suture lies on the lateral posterior skull, connecting the occipital bone at the back of the head with the mastoid region of the temporal bone. The mastoid part of the temporal bone contains mastoid air cells and lies just anterior and inferior to the occipital region. The mastoid process, a prominent projection of the temporal bone, is nearby and commonly referenced in relation to this area.

The occipitomastoid suture is one of several cranial sutures that unite the bones of the skull. Like other sutures, it can ossify with age, though the timing of fusion varies among individuals. The area is clinically relevant because the mastoid region is adjacent to middle and inner ear structures, and diseases affecting the temporal bone, such as mastoiditis, can involve nearby cranial sutures and bones.

In summary, occipitomastoid denotes the connection between the occipital bone and the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, best recognized by the occipitomastoid suture at the posterior lateral skull. Etymologically, it combines occipital and mastoid elements to describe this cranial junction. See also occipitomastoid suture, mastoid process, occipital bone, temporal bone.