Lecture 1: Structure Flashcards
Neuraxis (definition)
- The neuraxis is an imaginary line drawn through the spinal cord up to the front of the brain
- Anatomical directions are understood relative to the neuraxis
Ipsilateral
Same side of the brain
Contralateral
Opposite side of brain
Unilateral
One side of brain
Bilateral
Both sides of brain
Afferent
Towards the reference point (e.g. Towards the brain)
Efferent
Away from the reference point (e.g. Away from the brain)
How many planes can the brain be sectioned into?
The brain can be sectioned in three planes
What are the planes of sectioning of the brain?
–Sagittal
–Coronal (or transverse)
–Horizontal
•Each section provides a different view of the internal anatomy of the brain
How many functions of the nervous system are there?
3
What are the functions of the nervous system?
- Sensory input
- Integration
- Motor output
Define sensory input of the nervous system
Sensory receptors present in skin and organs respond to external and internal stimuli by generating nerve impulses that travel to the brain and spinal cord.
Define integration of the nervous system
The brain and spinal cord sum up the data received from all over the body and send out nerve impulses.
Define motor output of the nervous system
The nerve impulses from the brain and spinal cord go to the effectors, which are muscles and glands. Muscle contractions and gland secretions are responses to stimuli received by sensory receptors.
How many major divisions of the nervous system are there?
2
What are the major divisions of the nervous system?
- Central nervous system (CNS)
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
What does the central nervous system consist of?
- Brain
- Spinal cord (may be considered an extension of the brain)
What are the two divisions of the PNS?
- Somatic nervous system
- Autonomic nervous system
What does the somatic nervous system consist of?
(connects to skin & musculoskeletal system)
—sensory nerves (afferent) and motor nerves (efferent)
•cranial nerves (12 pair)
•spinal nerves (31 pair)
What does the autonomic nervous innervate?
Connects to viscera, glands & blood vessels
What are the subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system?
- sympathetic nervous system
* parasympathetic nervous system
What are the three layers of meninges?
Dura mater, arachnoid, pia mater
What are the functions of the meninges?
Protection of the brain
