The nipple-like projection of the mastoid portion of the temporal bone.
Part of the temporal bone which protrudes at the side of the head behind the ear.
A nipple-shaped process on the temporal bone that extends downward and forward behind the ear canal and is the point of attachment of several facial muscles. It contains many air spaces (mastoid cells), which communicate with the cavity of the middle ear via an air-filled channel, the mastoid antrum. This provides a possible route for the spread of infection from the middle ear.
The protrusion of the temporal bone of the skull which can be felt immediately behind the ear. It contains numerous cavities, one of which the mastoid antrum communicates with the middle ear, and is liable to suppurate when the middle ear is diseased.
Horn-shaped process of mastoid portion of temporal bone extending downward and forward behind the external auditory meatus. It serves for attachment of the sternocleidomastoid, splenius capitis, and longissimus capitis muscles.