Brain stem disease

Question 1

Describe the function of the medulla

Answer 1

• Contains 9, 10, 11, 12
• Dorsal columns decussate -> mediam lemniscus
• Corticospinal tract decussate
• Digestions, respiration, regulation of heart rate and BP

Question 2

Describe the function of the pons

Answer 2

• 5, 6, 7, 8
• Relay information from pons
• MLF pathways
• Auditory and vestibular connections

Question 3

Describe the function of the midbrain

Answer 3

• Control of eye movments
• Coordination of visual and auditory reflexes
• CN 3 and 4

Question 4

Which cranial nerves not in brain stem?

Answer 4

Optic - terminates in thalamus

Olfactory nerve - olfactory bulb

Question 5

What is medial medullary syndrome?

Answer 5

• Dejerine’s syndrome is caused by occlusion of the anterior spinal artery or vertebral artery
  
  • Ipsilateral paresis of the tongue (damage of CN 12 - deviates toward lesion)
  • Contralateral hemiplegia
  • Contralateral loss of position and vibratory sensation