Ascending Tracts

Question 1

What is the function of the ascending tracts?

Answer 1

To send sensory info from the peripheral nerves into the cerebral cortex

Question 2

What does the DCML pathway sense?

Answer 2

Touch, vibration and proprioception

Question 3

Where does info travel through the DCML?

Answer 3

Dorsal Column and Medial Lemniscus

Question 4

Describe the pathway of the first order neurons of the DCML

Answer 4

Peripheral Nerves -> Medulla

UPPER LIMBS - Fasiculus Cuneatus –> Nucleus Cuneatus
LOWER LIMBS - Fasiculus Gracilis –> Nucleus Gracilis

Question 5

Describe the pathway of second order neurones of the DCML?

Answer 5

Cuneate Nucleus/Gracilis –> thalamus

FIBRES DECUSSATE AT MEDULLA

Question 6

Describe the pathway of third order neurones of the DCML?

Answer 6

Thalamus –> Primary Sensory Cortex

Question 7

What does the anterior spinothalamic tract detect?

Answer 7

Touch and pressure

Question 8

What does the lateral spinothalamic tract detect?

Answer 8

Pain and temperature

Question 9

Describe the pathway of the spinothalamic tract?

Answer 9

First Order - spinal cord to tip of dorsal horn
Second Order - dorsal horn to thalamus (splits into two pathways - anterior and lateral)
Third Order - Thalamus - ipsilateral primary sensory cortex