Ascending and descending spinal tracts Flashcards
What are the tracts of the spinal cord divided into?
Ascending and descending tracts
The ascending tracts are responsible for sensory innervation. true/false?
True
The tracts make up the grey matter of the spinal cord. true/false?
False
They make up the white matter. The colour is due to the whiteish colour of the myelin sheaths.
The ventral and dorsal horns are located in the grey matter. true/false?
True
The role of the ascending pathways (tracts)?
For transporting information from the body and act as sensory tracts.
Where is the dorsal column?
Also known as the posterior column is located at the back of the spinal cross-section.
What 2 ascending pathways are located in the dorsal column and what are their roles?
Fasciculus cuneatus
Fasciculus gracilis
Both responsible for fine touch, proprioception and vibration.
Fasciculus cuneatus lies medially to fasciculus gracilis. true/false?
False
Fasciculus gracilis lies medially
What is the difference between the fasciculus cuneatus and gracilis?
Fasciculus cuneatus - contains upper limb signals (usually above T6)
Fasciculus gracilis - contains lower limb signals (usually below T6)
Remember: L in gracilis = legs or lower limbs
The posterior column pathways run ipsilateral. true/false?
True
Meaning any damage to these pathways will affect proprioception, fine touch and vibration on the same side.
How many spinothalamic pathways are there?
2
Anterior spinothalamic pathway
Lateral spinothalamic pathway
Role of anterior spinothalamic tract?
Crude touch and pressure
Role of lateral spinothalamic tract?
Temperature and pain
Difference between the anterolateral spinal tracts and the posterior spinal tracts?
Posterior separate in the medulla of the brainstem.
Anterolateral separate in the spinal cord meaning damage affects opposite side of body.
The descending pathways are responsible for motor function. true/false?
True
