The middle meningeal artery is traditionally described by the human anatomy books as having its origin in the first portion of the maxillary artery. However, more detailed studies have shown that there are numerous variations on this arterial segment with considerable clinical importance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a wide review about this aspect analyzing scientific articles and textbooks. Thus, this review shall be useful for clinicians, surgeons and academics that manipulate and keep interest for this particular anatomical site.