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Definition

noun

The superior border of the wing of ilium and the superolateral (i.e. the side and above) margin of the greater pelvis, where a large quantity of bone marrow is concentrated.

Supplement

The iliac crest is the site where stem cells are collected for use in bone marrow transplantation as a large amount of red bone marrow resides in here. The iliac crest is also used as the basis when performing a lumbar puncture since the top of it marks the level of the fourth lumbar vertebral body.

Also called: the crest of the ilium

Synonym:

• crista iliaca (Latin)

See also: ilium