Case 16 Flashcards

(319 cards)

1
Q

Uncal herniation is caused by…

A

Raised intracranial pressure

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2
Q

Uncal herniation

A

Uncus (medial edge of temporal lobe) forced below tentorium cerebelli to compress the midbrain.

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3
Q

Signs of uncal herniation

A

Abnormal posture
Poor GCS
Eye down and out, enlarged ipsilateral pupil and absent light reflex (compression of CNIII)
Potential coma (compression of midbrain)

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4
Q

Central/Trans Tentorial Herniation

A

Entire brain moving downward.
Can see symmetric downward movement of thalamic structures.
Compression of upper midbrain, therefore affecting pons and medulla as well.

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5
Q

Signs of Central/Trans Tentorial Herniation

A

Diabetes insipidus (compression of pituitary stalk)
Dilated fixed pupils.
Paralysis of upper eye movement (AKA sunset eyes)
False localising sign.

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6
Q

Most common brain herniation

A

Cingulate/Subfalcine/Transfalcine

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7
Q

Cingulate/Subfalcine/Transfalcine Herniation

A

Displacement of brain (typically cingulate gyrus) under falx cerebri, across midline

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8
Q

Signs of Cingulate/Subfalcine/Transfalcine Herniation

A

Few signs since brainstem relatively preserved.

Contralateral obstructive hydrocephalus (due to obstruction of interventricular foramen between lateral and 3rd ventricles)
Contralateral leg weakness (compression of anterior cerebral artery)

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9
Q

Foramen of Monroe

A

Interventricular foramen between lateral ventricles and 3rd ventricle.

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10
Q

Foraminal/Tonsillar Herniation

A

Downward herniation of cerebellar tonsils into foramen magnum.

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11
Q

Signs of Foraminal/Tonsillar Herniation

A

Respiratory arrest (compression of respiratory centre in medulla)

Instant deterioration

No other signs since structures superior to medulla are unaffected.

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12
Q

Vertebral arteries arise from…

A

Subclavian arteries

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13
Q

Vertebral arteries fuse to form…

A

Basilar artery

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14
Q

Blood supply to brainstem

A

Vertebral and basilar arteries.

Therefore, strokes involving these arteries have a high mortality (85%) since brainstem controls life support functions.

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15
Q

Ascending Reticular Activating System (ASAS) controls…

A

Consciousness

Consists of many components in brainstem - damage results in coma.

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16
Q

Signs/Symptoms of damage to spinothalamic tract

A

Contralateral loss of pain and temperature sensation on the body

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17
Q

Signs/Symptoms of damage to trigeminal tract

A

Ipsilateral loss of pain/temperature sensation on the face

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18
Q

Nucleus Ambiguus

A

Located in medullary reticular activating system.

Innervation of muscles of soft palate, pharynx and larynx

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19
Q

Signs/Symptoms of damage to Nucleus Ambiguus and Nerve roots of CNIX and X

A

Dysphagia
Hoarseness
Loss of gag reflex

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20
Q

Lateral medullary syndrome is caused by

A

Occlusion of Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery

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21
Q

Signs/Symptoms of damage to Hypothalamospinal Fibres (Dorsal Longitudinal Fasciculus

A

Ipsilateral Horner’s Syndrome

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22
Q

Signs/Symptoms of damage to Vestibular Nuclei

A

Vetigo
Tendency to fall to ipsilateral side
Diplopia (double vision)

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23
Q

Signs/Symptoms of damage to spinocerebellar tract

A

Ipsilateral ataxia

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24
Q

Cause of lateral medullary syndrome

A

PICA occlusion

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25
PICA
Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery
26
Signs/Symptoms of Lateral Medullary Syndrome
Contralateral loss of pain and temp sensation on the body. Ipsilateral loss of pain and temp sensation on the face. Dysphagia/Hoarseness/Loss of gag reflex Ipsilateral Horner's Syndrome Vertigo/falling to ipsilateral side/ diplopia Ipsilateral ataxia
27
Spinal tracts affected by lateral medullary syndrome
``` Spinothalamic tract Trigeminal Tract Nucleus Ambiguus and roots of CNIX and X Hypothalamospinal Fibres Vestibular Nuclei Spinocerebellar Tract ```
28
Glial cell division occurs...
Throughout life
29
Neuronal cell division occurs...
Before birth
30
Brain cells found in brain tumors
Glial cells (glioma) OR Cells of meningeal coverings (Meningioma)
31
Function of Microglia
Attack disease organisms and phagocytose damaged cells
32
Function of oligodendrocytes
Myelination | Schwann cells of the CNS.
33
Necrosis
Loss of membrane integrity, resulting in release of inflammatory mediators which can cause further damage.
34
Apoptosis
Programmed cell death. Cell breaks up into membrane bound bodies containing intact organelles. No release of inflammatory mediators.
35
Cellular changes resulting in apoptosis
Loss of trophic factors needed for cell survival - BDNF and NGF. Extracellular ligands e.g. TNF
36
Apoptosis is orchestrated by...
Proteolytic enzymes called caspases | DNAases
37
Galectin-1
Factor secreted by macrophages that promotes Schwann Cell migration and axon regrowth following axonal injury.
38
Function of Schwann cells in axonal regeneration
Phagocytose debris | Secrete trophic factors to promote axonal growth.
39
Function of Calpain in axonal regeneration
Breakdown of cytoskeleton
40
Function of macrophages in axonal regeneration
Secrete factors (e.g. Galectin-1) that promote axon regrowth and schwann cell migration
41
Function of microglia in Glial Scar formation
Removal of debris
42
Function of Astrocytes in Glial Scar Formation
Begin to divide and hypertrophy 48 hrs after injury. | Reform a barrier to the brain by linking of their processes together around the lesion.
43
Function of Meningeal-like cells in Glial Scar Formation
Invade the lesion cavity to form a plug
44
Cytokines involved in Glial Scar formation... Released by...
IL-6, TGF-beta, FGF-2 Microglia, neurons and astrocytes
45
Key cell in Glial Scar Formation
Astrocytes
46
Why does axonal regrowth not occur in CNS?
Astocytes produce Chrondroitin Sulphate Proteoglycans (CSPGs) e.g. Versican Oligodendrocytes release NogoA (also transition from CNS to PNS when oligodendrocytes are replaced by Schwann cells, acts as an inhibitor)
47
Diffuse axonal injury
A shearing injury causing extensive lesions in white matter tracts occurring over a widespread area. Results in immediate unconsciousness
48
Why does unconsciousness occur?
Functional disturbance in Ascending Reticular Activating system (responsible for consciousness and arousal)
49
Protein associated with DAI
Beta-amyloid protein, accumulates 2-3 hours post injury
50
Petechial Haemorrhages in the brain
Small sources of blood leakage at the interface of grey and white matter. Assoc w/ DAI Indicative of severe brain injury. (Looks like white spots on CT brain scan)
51
White matter haemorrhage due to DAI can result in...
Complete loss of corpus callosum and enlargement of ventricles.
52
Function of Nerve Growth Factor and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
Released at synapses. Maintain and promote survival of neurons.
53
Transneuronal Degeneration
Degeneration of axons adjacent to injured axon. Occurs since NGF and BDNF (supporters of neuronal survival) are no longer released from injured axon at its synapses. Therefore, apoptosis of neurons it contacts.
54
Why does extracellular [Glutamate] rise in traumatic brain injury?
Rupture of axons causing release of glutamate. | Anaerobic metabolism by astrocytes resulting in acidity and therefore, reduced reuptake of glutamate.
55
Cellular Consequences of Excitotoxicity
Activating of AMPA and NMDA receptors by glutamate causes increased intracellular Ca2+ Activation of calpains, proteases, phospholipases and endonucleases resulting in cell necrosis. Ca2+ also causes activation of proapoptotic genes e.g. caspases
56
Molecules responsible for prevention of oxidative stress
Reactive oxygen species produced in oxidative phosphorylation by mitochondria. Mopped up by vitamins A and E, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase.
57
Why does excitotoxicity result in oxidative stress?
High Ca2+ which must be sequestered by mitochondria. Mitochondria work harder therefore producing more ROS. Too much ROS for antioxidants to mop up. ROS cause oxidation and malfunction of important molecules
58
Symptoms of Meningitis
Headache, fever, stiffness (TRIAD) + Photophobia Altered consciousness Seizures Non blanching rash
59
Signs of Bacterial Meningitis
Headache, fever and neck stiffness (TRIAD) Altered consciousness, low blood pressure, petechial rash, tachycardia.
60
How does viral meningitis differ from bacterial meningitis clinically?
Viral is less severe, often self-limiting. | Viral causes high fever but BP remains normal and there is no rash.
61
Causes of RBCs in CSF
Traumatic Tap | Intrathecal bleeding
62
How do you distinguish between traumatic tap and intrathecal bleeding in CSF examination?
Traumatic tap - RBC count will decrease in number across multiple samples. Intrathecal bleeding - RBC count is consistent across multiple samples.
63
Xanthochromia
Yellow tinge in CSF samples after blood products have been present for 12hrs
64
>90% polymorphs (neutrophils in CSF
Bacterial infection
65
>90% lymphocytes in CSF
Viral infection
66
Normal white cell count in CSF
No white cells is NORMAL. <5 is acceptable unless there is sufficient history
67
CSF in bacterial meningitis
Yellowish, turbid Increased polymorphs Increased proteins Decreased glucose Normal lymphocytes
68
CSF in viral meningitis
Clear fluid Increased lymphocytes Normal lymphocytes, protein and glucose
69
Bacterial causes of meningitis
``` Neisseria Meningitidis (Gram -ve) Streptococcal pneumoniae (Gram +ve) Listeria Monocytogenes (Gram +ve) ```
70
Viral cause of meningitis
Enterovirus
71
Treatment of bacterial meningitis
Broad spectrum antibiotics initially: Ceftriaxone (+ Ampicillin if Listeria suspected i.e. pregnant or elderly) Continue Abx until CSF results are unequivocal. Tx adjuncts e.g. Dexamethasone in S.Pneumoniae Monitor GCS (GCS<7 means airway is probably compromised) Check clotting
72
Treatment for viral meningitis
Analgesia Antiemetics Hydration
73
When is a CT scan of head indicated in meningitis?
Raised ICP Immunocompromised Reduced GCS
74
Chronic Meningitis
TB and cryptococcal meningitis. Often presents with cranial neuropathy since inflammation occurs at base of skull. Causes little or no pain. Travel Hx is very important here
75
CSF in fungal meningitis
Yellow and viscous Increase lymphocytes Protein and polymorphs may be increased or normal Glucose may be decreased or normal.
76
Symptoms of encephalitis
Headache Seizure Personality change Neurological signs (May first present in psychiatric services)
77
Causes of encephalitis
``` Herpes Simplex CMV EBV Varicella Zoster HIV Enterovirus Measles Virus ``` Can also be autoimmune
78
Treatment of viral encephalitis
Aciclovir or HAART if secondary to HIV/AIDS
79
MOA of Aciclovir
DNA polymerase inhibitor. | Inhibits DNA synthesis by virus.
80
Karposi Sarcoma
Tumour caused by Human Herpes Virus 8 - lesions in skin, mucus membranes and lymph nodes due to poor control of HIV
81
Vacuolar Myelopathy
Associated with low CD4+ lymphocytes in HIV. Symptoms include: Painless leg weakness, stiffness, sensory loss, imbalance, sphincter dysfunction
82
Paralytic Poliomyelitis
Occurs in 2% of poliomyelitis. Anterior horn cells in spinal cord are attacked causing asymmetric flaccid paralysis in one or more limbs. Since this usually occurs in childhood, limb does not grow to full size.
83
Cause of intracerebral abscess/empyema
Local infection (e.g. mastoid air cells, venous sinuses, otitis media) that spreads intracranially
84
Symptoms of rabies
``` Hypersalivation Perspiration Pupillary dilatation Priapism - persistent and painful erection of penis) Fever Agitation Depression Foaming at mouth after drinking due to throat spasms ``` Fatal when symptomatic
85
Virus which causes rabies
Lyssavirus
86
Negri bodies
Eosinophilic, sharply outlined bodies found in cytoplasm of neurons infected with lyssavirus (rabies). Especially pyramidal cells within Ammon's horn of the hippocampus.
87
Treatment of rabies
Hospitalisation Immunoglobulin treatment Anti-rabies vaccine
88
Symptoms of tetanus
Spasms and stiffness in jaw muscles (trismus/lock jaw) Stiffness of neck and abdominal muscles Difficulty swallowing Painful body spasms (last several minutes)
89
How does Botulinism manifest in the body?
Clostridium botulinism is a bacteria found in soil and canned foods. Secretes botulinum toxin (botox) which causes symptoms of botulinism when ingested.
90
Signs/Symptoms of Botulinism
``` Descending paralysis including respiraory failure. Blurred vision Pupil dilatation Nausea Diarrhoea ```
91
Treatment of botulinism
Intubation | Antitoxin
92
Most common parasitic disease of CNS
Taenia Solium - cysticercosis
93
Most common cause of epilepsy worldwide
Cysticercosis - Taenia Solium parasite infection
94
Signs/Symptoms of Cysticercosis
New onset of seizures +/- raised ICP if CSF flow is interrupted
95
Treatment of cysticercosis/Taenia Solium
Praziquantel or Albendazole - used n treatment of parasitic worm infections
96
Bacteria responsible for neurosyphilis
Treponema Pallidum
97
Manifestations of Tertiary Syphilis
Neurosyphilis Gumma Aortitis/Aortic regurgitation
98
Latency of neurosyphilis
Pure meningeal = 1yr Meningovascular = 5-10yrs Spinal cord involvement =20yrs
99
Treatment of syphilis
Penicillin | Probenicid
100
Prion disease of CNS
85% caused by Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob | Brain damage leading to rapid decrease of movement and mental function.
101
Signs and symptoms of Prion Disease of CNS
``` Neurodegenerative: Dementia Seizures Personality change Ataxia Startle myoclonus (sudden muscle contraction) ```
102
Metabolic causes of coma without neurological signs
``` Hyper/Hypoglycaemia Hypoxia Acidosis Thiamine Deficiency Hepatic or Renal Failure Hypercapnia Hypoadrenalism ```
103
Most common category of coma
Coma without neurological signs
104
Toxins resulting in Toxin-Induced Coma without neurological signs
Drugs - benzodiazepines, Barbiturates, opiates, TCAs | Alcohol
105
Non metabolic, non toxic causes of Coma without neurological signs
Infectious e.g. encephalitis Vascular e.g. hypertensive encephalopathy Trauma e.g. concussion Epilepsy (postictal - after a seizure) Temperature regulation i.e. hypo/hyperthermia
106
Causes of coma with neurological signs
Haemorrhage Infarction Tumours Infectious (abscess)
107
Causes of coma in meningitic syndrome
Subarachnoid haemorrhage | Bacterial meningeal infection
108
Tentorium
Outgrowth of dura mater, separating cerebellum and cerebrum
109
Components of reticular formation
Diencephalon (consists of thalamus, hypothalamus and pituitary gland, effectively enclosing the 3rd ventricle) Midbrain Rostral pons
110
Components of reticular activating system
Reticular formation Thalamus Cerebral hemispheres
111
Symptoms of raised ICP
``` Headache* N+V* Altered consciousness (GCS) Ophthalmoparesis (CNIII, IV and VI affected) Increased systolic and pulse pressure Bradycardia Abnormal respiratory pattern Papilloedema (Chronic only) ``` *Triad symptoms
112
False localising sign in raised ICP
CNVI compression - signs do not indicate location of the problem.
113
Cheyne-Stokes Respiration
Progressively deeper and faster breathing followed by a decrease that results in temporary apnoea. Caused by bihemispheric damage(cerebellar and thalamic). Usually metabolic origin. Usually seen in palliative care.
114
Kussmaul Respiration
Deep and laboured breathing associated with metabolic acidosis (e.g. DKA)
115
Apneusis
Deep gasping inspiration with a brief pause at full inspiration, followed by a brief insufficient release. Caused by a lesion in respiratory centre (lateral tegmentum of pons)
116
Ataxic breathing
Complete irregularity of breathing. | Caused by damage to medulla oblongata.
117
Apneustic centre
Located in pons | Controls rhythm of breathing
118
Pneumotactic centre
Located in pons Controls rate and depth of breathing Inhibits apneustic centre
119
GCS: Best eye opening response
Spontaneously 4 To verbal stimuli 3 To painful stimuli 2 None 1
120
GCS: Best Verbal response
``` Oriented 5 Confused 4 Inappropriate words 3 Incomprehensible 2 No verbal response 1 ```
121
Best motor response
``` Obeys commands 6 Localises pain 5 Withdraws to pain 4 Flexion to pain 3 Extension to pain 2 None 1 ```
122
Divergence of eyes in the unconscious patient
Normal during drowsiness, | Ocular axes become parallel as coma deepens i.e. drift back to middle.
123
Conjugate Roving
Deviation of both eyes to one side in the unconscious patient. Frontal lobe lesion - eyes deviate to ipsilateral side. Brainstem lesion - eyes deviate to contralateral side
124
Ocular bobbing
Brisk downward movement of eyes, slow movement back up to primary position. Caused by damage to PONS bilaterally
125
Small, reactive pupils in the unconscious patient
Damage to diencephalon (thalamus, hypothalamus and 3rd ventricle) Drugs Metabolic encephalopathy
126
Large, fixed pupils in the unconscious patient May show hippus (spastic contraction)
Pretectum area of midbrain damaged
127
Pretectum of midbrain is responsible for...
Constriction of pupil
128
In the unconscious patient, one eye has a normal pupil, the other is dilated and fixed.
CN III compression e.g. Uncal Herniation
129
In an unconscious patient, pupils are in the midposition and fixed size
Midbrain damaged
130
In an unconscious patient, pupils are very small (pinpoint)
Pons damaged
131
In what order are eye reflexes lost in the unconscious patient
First, reflex eye movements Second, corneal reflex Third, pupillary reflex to light
132
Vestibulo-ocular reflex
When head rotates to one side, the eyes move to the other
133
Vestibulo-ocular reflex assesses function of...
Medial longitudinal fasciculus in brainstem - main centre of connection for CN III, IV and VI
134
When turning the head of an unconscious patient (Doll's eye manoeuvre), the eyes move to the ipsilateral side. Area of damage is?
Medial longitudinal fasciculus in brainstem
135
Normal result in caloric testing
Eyes deviate to side of unpleasant stimulus AND nystagmus
136
Caloric testing
Irrigation of one ear with 20ml of cold water. Eye movements are assessed.
137
On carrying out a caloric test on an unconscious patient, there is no nystagmus in both eyes. This indicates...
Low brainstem lesion
138
On carrying out a caloric test on an unconscious patient, there is no nystagmus in one eye. This indicates...
Medial Longitudinal Fasciculus lesion
139
Unconscious patient with hypertonia
Established (long term) damage to cortex or proximal cervical spine.
140
Unconscious patient with flaccid paralysis
Acute spinal cord injury Hypertonia develops over time
141
Decorticate posturing of unconscious patient
Arms adducted, flexed at the elbow and wrist. Caused by damage to one or both corticospinal tracts
142
Decerebrate posturing of unconscious patient
Arms adducted, extended at the elbow, pronated and flexed at the wrist. Caused by damage to upper brainstem
143
Precentral gyrus contains
Primary motor cortex
144
Arrangement of primary motor cortex
Leg closest to midline. | Face most lateral
145
PMC is found in which lobe?
Frontal lobe
146
Broca's Area
Motor speech centre in frontal lobe
147
Arrangement of primary sensory cortex
Leg closest to midline. | Face most lateral
148
Occipital lobe contains
Visual cortex
149
Temporal Lobe functions
``` Contains primary auditory cortex - involved in hearing. Involved in formation of new memories and interpretation of visual stimuli Language comprehension (contains Wernicke's Area) ```
150
Location of insular lobe
Deep to lateral surface of brain (underneath frontal, parietal and temperal lobes.
151
Function of insula
``` Primary gustatory cortex language visual-vestibular integration Sympathetic tone Perception, motor control, self awareness and cognitive functioning ```
152
Damage to insula is associated with
arrhythmias
153
Basal ganglia
Lentiform nucleus (Globus pallidus and Putamen) Caudate nucleus Substantia nigra Subthalamic nuclei
154
Function of lentiform nuclei
Regulation of movement
155
Function of caudate nucleus
Memory and learning
156
Corpus striatum consists of...
``` Lentiform nucleus (Globus pallidus and Putamen) Caudate nucleus ```
157
Function of thalamus
Relay of sensory information to cortex. | Sleep, wakefulness, consciousness and arousal.
158
Thalamus is supplied by...
Posterior cerebral artery
159
Corona Radiata in the brain
White matter tract which is an extension of internal capsule, carrying ascending and descending fibres.
160
Most common sites of intracranial aneurysm
``` Anterior communicating (40%) Bifurcation of middle cerebral (34%) Posterior communicating (20%) Basilar Tip (4%) ```
161
Arterial supply of Caudate nucleus
Anterior cerebral artery
162
Arterial supply of Lentiform nucleus
Middle cerebral artery
163
Arterial supply of thalamus
Posterior cerebral artery
164
Arterial supply of internal capsule
Anterior choroidal artery
165
Torcular Herophili
Confluence of sinuses of the cerebrum
166
Venous sinuses of cerebrum drain into...
Internal jugular vein
167
Foramen of Monro
Connects lateral ventricles to the 3rd ventricle
168
Sylvian Aqueduct
Connects 3rd and 4th ventricle
169
Foramen of Luschka
Links 4th ventricle to cerebellopontine cistern. Allows CSF to enter subarachnoid space.
170
Foramen of Magendie
Links 4th ventricle and foramen magnum. Allows CSF to enter subarachnoid space.
171
Lobes of cerebellum
Anterior (petrosal) Superior (tentorial) Inferior (suboccipital)
172
Function of cerebellum
Coordination and timing of movements
173
Where is the cerebellum situated?
Posterior cranial fossa, behind 4th ventricle, pons and medulla.
174
Tentorium cerebelli
Separates cerebellum from cerebrum
175
Components of midbrain
Tectum Tegmentum Cerebral peduncles (containing ascending and descending tracts to and from cerebrum)
176
Arterial supply of pons
Superior cerebellar artery | Pontine branches of basilar artery
177
Ventral pons contains
White matter tracts: Corticospinal and corticobulbar
178
Which cranial nerves arise from Dorsal Tegmentum of Pons?
CNV, VI, VII and VIII
179
Mesencephalon
Midbrain
180
Metencephalon
Pons
181
Myencephalon
Medulla Oblongata
182
Corticobulbar tract
Supplies muscles of head and neck
183
Bulbar reflexes
Coughing, sneezing, swallowing and vomiting
184
Medulla Oblongata contains...
Autonomic cardiovascular and respiratory centres - controls breathing, blood pressure and heart rate Reflex centres for bulbar reflexes e.g. vomiting and sneezing
185
Arterial supply to medulla oblongata
PICA Anterior spinal artery Vertebral arteries
186
Ventral/Anterior medulla oblongata contains...
Olive Pyramidal tracts (e.g. corticospinal) CN IX-XII rootlets
187
Tegmentum/Dorsal medulla oblongata contains...
CN nuclei | White matter tracts
188
Decussation of pyramids occurs in the...
Medulla oblongata
189
Prevertebral soft tissue spaces seen on a lateral C-Spine X-Ray
C1 Nasopharyngeal C2-4 Retropharyngeal C5-7 Retrotracheal
190
Normal size for C1 Nasopharyngeal space on a lateral C-Spine X-Ray
<10mm
191
Normal size for C2-4 Retropharyngeal space on a lateral C-Spine X-Ray
<5-7mm
192
Normal size for C5-7 Retrotracheal space on a lateral C-Spine X-Ray
<22mm (or <14mm in children)
193
Mechanism for Hangman's Fracture
Hyperextension (e.g. hanging, chin hitting dashboard in car accident)
194
What is a Hangman's Fracture?
Fracture through pedicle of the axis
195
Radiographic features of a Hangman's Fracture
Prevertebral swelling Anterior dislocation of the C2 vertebral body Bilateral C2 pedicle fractures
196
Radiographic features of bilateral facet dislocation
Complete anterior dislocation of affected body by half or more of the vertebral body AP diameter
197
Management of brain contusion
Observe for signs of raised ICP (craniotomy/ectomy for persistently raised ICP) Prevent hypoxia and hypotension
198
Craniectomy
Removal of part of skull to allow a swelling brain to expand
199
Craniotomy
Surgical removal of part of skull to expose part of brain
200
Cause of depressed skull fracture
Impact with a sharp edge e.g. brick, hammer
201
Management of depressed skull fracture
Usually conservative Clean and suture overlying lacerations (especially of scalp) Surgery if causing significant neurological deficit or for cosmetic purposes.
202
Pathophysiology of subdural haemorrhage
Stretching and tearing of bridging cortical veins as they cross the subdural space to drain into an adjacent dural sinus.
203
Cause of subdural haemorrhage
High impact trauma - sudden change in velocity of head
204
Clinical Presentation of subdural haemorrhage
Usually unconscious Pupillary abnormalities May be latent (delayed presentation)
205
Why are young people more likely to have an extradural haemorrhage whereas older people are more likely to have a subdural haemorrhage?
Dura becomes more adherent to skull with age.
206
Cause of extradural haemorrhage
High impact trauma (associated with skull fracture)
207
Clinical presentation of extradural haemorrhage
May or may not lose consciousness transiently after trauma. Regain consciousness but usually have an ongoing headache before losing consciousness again gradually. Some CNIII and VI involvement.
208
Cause of subarachnoid haemorrhage
Spontaneous intracranial haemorrhage - ruptured aneurysm, venous infarct, cocaine use OR traum
209
Risk factors for subarachnoid haemorrhage
Older middle age (50-60) Hypertension Alcohol consumption
210
Management of subarachnoid haemorrhage
``` ICP monitoring Prevention of cerebral vasospasm: Haemodilution - reduces haematocrit Hypertension - increase blood pressure Hypervolaemia - correction of hypovolaemia Nimodipine - Cerebral selective CCB Vasodilating agents/Balloon angioplasty ```
211
Causes of intracerebral haemorrhage
Haemorrhagic venous infarct Hypertensive haemorrhage Haemorrhagic transformation of ischaemic tract
212
Risk factors intracerebral haemorrhage
``` HTN Diabetes Smoking Alcohol Severe migraine Age ```
213
Clinical presentation of intracerebral haemorrhage
``` Headache One sided weakness Vomiting Seizures LOC Neck stiffness ```
214
Management of intracerebral haemorrhage
Stop warfarin Control hypertension Surgery for large superficial haematomas
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Cause of intraventricular haemorrhage
``` Trauma Haemorrhaging in stroke Aneurysm Vascular malformation Tumors (particularly of choroid plexus) ```
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Presentation of intraventricular haemorrhage
Headache N+V Altered mental state and conscious level Xanthochromia
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Management of intraventricular haemorrhage
Symptomatic treatment Investigate cause of bleed Treat hydrocephalus w/ EVD or ventriculoperitoneal shunt
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Causes of obstructive hydrocephalus
``` Tumour Abscess Cysts Congenital Aqueduct Stenosis Chiari Malformations ```
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Chiari Malformations
Downward displacement of cerebellar tonsils causing obstructive hydrocephalus
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Causes of non obstructive hydrocephalus
Intracranial haemorrhage (SAH, IVH) Infection - meningitis Post traumatic
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Management of obstructive hydrocephalus
Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy - opening in floor of 3rd ventricle, redirecting CSF into space anterior to brainstem.
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Management of non obstructive hydrocephalus
Insertion of ventriculoperitoneal shunt
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Common organisms in intracranial infections
Anaerobic/aerobic streptococci | Staph Aureus
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Sources of intracranial infections
``` Paranasal sinus infections Dental abscess Middle ear and mastoid infection Haematogenous spread Penetrating head trauma Post op ```
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Empyema
Accumulation of pus
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History and presentation of intracranial infections
``` Headache N+V Seizures Altered mental state Neck stiffness Focal neurological defects ``` May have had a previous infection which has reached CNS.
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Indication for mannitol
Traumatic brain injury causing raised ICP
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Route of administration of mannitol
IV
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MOA of mannitol
Osmotherapeutic - draws fluid out of oedematous nerve tissue into blood osmotically
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ADRs of mannitol
Electrolytes imbalance Diuresis Hypotension Thrombophlebitis
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Contraindications of mannitol
``` Anuric Intracranial bleed (blood brain barrier compromised) ```
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Indication for dexamethasone
Traumatic brain injury
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Route of administration of dexamethasone
IV
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MOA of dexamethasone
Steroid - forms a complex with glucocorticoid receptor which acts as a transcriptional regulator. Upregulation of anti inflammatory proteins and down regulation of proinflammatory proteins.
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ADRs of dexamethasone
Immunosuppression (long term) Cushing's Syndrome Osteoporosis
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Contraindications of dexamethasone
Immunocompromised | Diabetic
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Indication for midazolam
Epilepstic seizure
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Route of administration of midazolam
Buccal or rectal
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MOA of midazolam
Benzodiazepines - increase GABAergic suppression of nerve activity. Increased Cl- in cell, hyperpolarisation and therefore reduced impulse propagation
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ADRs of midazolam
Drowsiness Cardiac arrest Paradoxical excitement/aggression
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Contraindications of midazolam
CNS depression | Severe respiratory depression
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Indication for carbamazepine
Long term management of epilepsy - reduces incidence of seizures
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Route of administration of carbamazepine
Oral
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MOA of carbamazepine
Na+ channel blocker GABA agonist Therefore, reduces aberrant action potential propagation
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ADRs of carbamazepine
``` Allergic skin reaction aplastic anaemia (damage to bone marrow and haemopoietic stem cells) Atazia Blurred vision Dizziness ```
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Contraindications of Carbamazepine
Porphyria (build up of porphryn proteins which are essential for Hb function) Cardiac AV blocking drugs.
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Status Epilepticus
A medical emergency - | seizure lasting more than 5 minutes or 2 seizures occurring within 5 minutes
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Level of bifurcation of brachiocephalic trunk
Right sternoclavicular joint
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Level of bifurcation of common carotid arteries
Superior margin of thyroid cartilage C4
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Coronary Sinuses
Dilatation of internal and common carotids at the carotid triangle (bifurcation) - involved in regulation of blood pressure
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Internal carotid arteries supply...
Brain Eyes Forehead Do not supply any structures in the neck.
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Major branches of the external carotid arteries...
Maxillary - supply deep structures of the face | Facial and superficial temporal branches - supply superficial areas of the face
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Vertebral arteries supply:
The brain (converge to form basilar artery)
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External jugular vein
Drains external face into subclavian vein
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Internal jugular vein
Drains facial, lingual, occipital, superior and middle thyroid veins. Combines with subclavian vein to form brachiocephalic vein
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Dural venous sinuses drain into...
Internal jugular vein
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Cavernous Sinuses
Next to sphenoid bone. Receive blood from ophthalmic veins, middle superficial cerebral veins and sphenoparietal sinus. Contain internal carotid artery - cooling the blood before it reaches the brain.
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Why does cavernous sinus infection cause nerve damage?
Lateral wall of each cavernous sinus contains CNIII, CNIV, CNV1 and CNV2
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Contents of carotid sheath
Common and internal carotid arteries Internal jugular vein Vagus nerve Deep cervical lymph nodes
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Cranial nerves which exit the skull via the cribriform plate
CNI - Olfactory nerve
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Cranial nerves which exit the skull via the optic canal
CNII - Optic Nerve
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Cranial nerves which exit the skull via the superior orbital fissure
CNIII - Oculomotor nerve CNIV - Trochlear nerve CNV1 - Ophthalmic branch of Trigeminal Nerve CNVI - Abducens Nerve
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Cranial nerves which exit the skull via the internal auditory canal
CNVII - Facial Nerve | CNVIII - Vestibulocochlear Nerve
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Cranial nerves which exit the skull via the jugular foramen
CNIX - Glossopharyngeal nerve CNX - Vagus Nerve CNXI - Accessory Nerve
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Cranial nerves which exit the skull via the hypoglossal canal
CNXII - Hypoglossal Nerve
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Function of nasal cavity
Warms and humidifies inspired air Removes and traps pathogens and particulate matter from inspired air Sense of smell Drainage and clearance of paranasal sinuses and lacrimal ducts
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Epithelium found in the nasal cavity
``` Respiratory region (majority) - ciliated pseudostratified epithelium, interspersed with mucus secreting goblet cells. Olfactory region (upper apex) - olfactory cells with olfactory receptors ```
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Function of nasal conchae
Increased surface area of nasal cavity, making airflow slow and turbulent. Therefore, air remains in cavity longer for humidification
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Structures which open into nasal cavity
Sphenoid, ethmoidal, maxillary, frontal sinuses Eustachian tube Nasolacrimal duct
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Ethmoid Bulla
Opening of middle ethmoid sinus into nasal cavity
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Arterial supply to nasal cavity
Internal and external carotid arteries
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Venous drainage of nasal cavity
Pterygoid plexus Facial vein Cavernous sinus
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Kiesselbach Area
Anterior 1/3 of nasal cavity, common site of epistaxis (nosebleed) due to rich blood supply.
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Innervation of nose and nasal cavity
Specifal sensation via olfactory nerves and olfactory bulb General sensation to septum and lateral walls via nasopalatine (CNV2)and nasociliary (CNV1) nerve. CNV supplies external skin of nose.
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Significant risk associated with Cribriform plate fracture
CNS infection (meningitis, encephalitis, brain abscesses) since fractured cribriform plate can penetrate meningeal linings causing leakage of CSF.
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Anosmia
Loss of smell Can occur due to damage of olfactory bulb in cribriform plate fracture.
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Vertebral level of larynx
C3-6
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Glottis of larynx contains
Vocal cords
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Interior surface of larynx is lined by...
Mucus membrane containing ciliated columnar epithelium
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Blood supply to larynx
Superior laryngeal artery (from superior thyroid) | Inferior laryngeal artery (from inferior thyroid)
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Function of true focal cords (Vocal laryngeal folds)
Control pitch of sound generated
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Reinke's space
Found in vocal laryngeal folds. Contains fluid and GAGs which vibrate to create sound.
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Vestibular Laryngeal Folds
False vocal cords Act to provide protection to larynx Consist of vestibular ligament covered by a mucous membrane
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Action of suprahyoid muscles
Elevate larynx
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Action of infrahyoid muscles
Depress larynx
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Action of cricothyroid
Stretches and tenses vocal ligament - forceful speech
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Action of thyroarytenoid
Relaxes vocal ligaments - softer voice
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Muscles which alter size of rima glottidis
Posterior cricoarytenoid - abducts vocal folds, widening rima glottidis Lateral cricoarytenoid - adducts vocal folds, narrowing rima glottidis Transverse and oblique arytenoids - adduct arytenoid cartilages, closing posterior portion of rima glottidis
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Function of rima glottidis
Phonation - when air is forced through a closed RG, sound is generated.
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Tracheotomy
Half inch, horizontal incision in the indentation between Adam's Apple and the cricoid cartilage. Rought 0.5-1 inch deep. To relieve an obstruction to breathing.
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Indication for tracheotomy
Person has a throat obstruction and is not able to breath at all (not coughing or gasping) and Heimlich Maneuvre has been attempted 3 times.
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Tracheostomy
An opening at the front of the neck so that a tube can be inserted into the windpipe - helping a person to breath.
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Origin of sternocleidomastoid
Sternum and clavicle
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Insertion of sternocleidomastoid
Mastoid process of temporal bone of the skull
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Function of sternocleidomastoid
Rotation of head and flexion of the neck
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Innervation of sternocleidomastoid
CNXI
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Complications of interscalene bloc
Temporary paresis of thoracic diaphragm (since phrenic nerve lies in this area) Difficulty swallowing Vocal cord paresis
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What is interscalene block?
Injection of local anaesthetic into nerves of brachial plexus (between anterior and middle scalene muscles, at level of cricoid cartilage) Useful for surgery of clavicle, shoulder and arm.
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Suboccipital muscles
Rectus capitis posterior minor and major | Obliquus capitis superior and inferior
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Actions of suboccipital muscles
Extension and rotation of head
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Structures found in the suboccipital triangle
Vertebral artery Suboccipital venous plexus Suboccipital nerve
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Action of stylohyoid muscle
Initiates swallowing by pulling hyoid postero-superiorly
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Innervation of stylohyoid
Stylohyoid branch of CNVII
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Action of digastric muscle
Depresses mandible and elevates hyoid bone
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Innervation of digastric muscle
Anterior belly - CNV | Posterior belly - CNVII
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Action of suprahyoid muscles
Elevate hyoid bone
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Scalene muscles: Action: Supplied by...
Anterior, middle and posterior Accessory muscles of respiration AND ipsilateral flexion of neck Supplied by anterior rami of cervical spine (A=C5-6, M=C3-8 and P=C6-8)
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Jefferson Fracture
Fracture of atlas - usually caused by diving into shallow water. Unlikely to damage spinal cord at C1 level since vertebral foramen is large (but may be damaged further down)
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What type of cervical spine injury will result in spinal cord injury?
Dislocation or subluxation - 50% of cases occur at C6/7
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Hangman's Fracture
Fracture of Pars articularis of axis (C2) due to rapid deceleration
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Significant risk of Dens Fracture
Unstable, at risk of avascular necrosis due to isolation of distal fragment from any blood supply.
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Bones which form the superficial border of the orbit
Frontal Zygomatic Maxillary
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Bones of the calvarium (vault of the skull)
Frontal Parietal Occipital
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Bones of the cranial base
``` Frontal Ethmoid Sphenoid Temporal Parietal Occipital ```
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Bregma
Anatomical point on the skull at which the coronal suture is intersected perpendicularly by the sagittal suture. (Anteriosuperior)
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Lambda
Anatomical point on the skull at which the lumbdoid suture is intersected perpendicularly by the sagittal suture. (Posterior)
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Arterial, Venous and nervous supply of dura mater
Middle meningeal artery and vein CNV (trigeminal nerve)
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Arterial, Venous and nervous supply of arachnoid mater
Avascular | No innervation
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Arachnoid granulations
Projections of arachnoid mater into the dura which allow CSF to reenter circulation via dural venous sinuses