Lateral spinothalamic tract

Question 1

Function

Answer 1

Pain, temperature, tickle, itch, sexual sensation (protopathic)

Question 2

Receptor and afferents

Answer 2

Free nerve nedings for pain and temperature (A type fast: sharp pain, C type slow: prolonged burning, aching)

Question 3

1st order neuron

Answer 3

DRG - axons spilt in white matter of spinal cord: ascending + descending branches travel in dorsolateral tract of Lissauer

Question 4

2nd order neuron

Answer 4

Posterior horn + Substantia Gelatinosa of Rolando

Question 5

Decussation level

Answer 5

Axons of 2nd order neuron cross in anterior white commissure within the same spinal segments –> ascend in the anterolateral funiculus on the opposite (contralateral) side

Question 6

3rd order neuron

Answer 6

VPL

Question 7

Final destination

Answer 7

Primary somatosensory cortex (postcentral gyrus)

Alternative endings: Cingulate gyrus (Emotional pain) and Insula (autonomic response to pain)