Neuroanatomy Flashcards
(23 cards)
What mnemonic helps recall cranial nerve names?
“Oh, Oh, Oh, To Touch And Feel Very Green Vegetables, AH!”
This mnemonic corresponds to Cranial Nerves I-XII.
How can you remember the functions of cranial nerves?
“Some Say Marry Money But My Brother Says Big Brains Matter Most”
This phrase indicates whether each cranial nerve is Sensory, Motor, or Both.
What does CN III (Oculomotor) control?
Most eye movements, pupil constriction
Classic signs of CN III palsy include ptosis and ‘down and out’ eye position.
What sensory function is associated with CN V (Trigeminal)?
Facial sensation
A stroke involving the pons may lead to loss of facial pain and touch.
What does preserved forehead movement in facial droop indicate?
Central lesion
If the entire side is affected, it indicates Bell’s palsy (peripheral).
What is the phrase used to remember forehead preservation in central lesions?
“The forehead is spared if the brain is impaired.”
This phrase helps differentiate between central and peripheral facial lesions.
List the four midline structures in the brainstem according to the Rule of 4s.
- Motor pathway (corticospinal tract)
- Medial lemniscus
- MLF (medial longitudinal fasciculus)
- Motor cranial nerves (III, IV, VI, XII)
Each structure has specific clinical implications when affected.
What does damage to the corticospinal tract indicate?
Weakness opposite the lesion
This is a key concept in understanding motor pathways.
What is the significance of visualizing structures like the Circle of Willis?
Anchors spatial understanding
Visualizing anatomical structures aids in clinical assessments.
How can tactile memory associations help in learning dermatomes?
By linking them to physical sensations
Tactile memory enhances recall of spinal levels and dermatomes.
What are the four lateral structures that start with S?
Spinothalamic tract, Spinocerebellar tract, Sensory nucleus of CN V, Sympathetic pathway
These structures are associated with specific sensory and motor functions.
Which cranial nerves are associated with the midbrain?
CN III, IV
These nerves are involved in eye movement and pupil constriction.
Which cranial nerves are associated with the pons?
CN V, VI, VII, VIII
These nerves are involved in facial sensation, movement, and hearing.
Which cranial nerves are associated with the medulla?
CN IX, X, XI, XII
These nerves are involved in swallowing, taste, and movements of the neck and tongue.
What is the clinical significance of a pontine lesion affecting CN VI and the corticospinal tract?
Lateral gaze palsy and contralateral hemiparesis
This condition is known as Millard-Gubler syndrome.
What is the primary function of the Anterior Cerebral Artery (ACA)?
Medial surface of the frontal lobe: Leg weakness, abulia, incontinence
Visualize a patient who is unable to walk or initiate speech.
What does the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) supply, and what are its clinical manifestations?
Lateral cortex: Face and arm > leg weakness, aphasia (if dominant), neglect (if non-dominant)
Remember ‘MCA = Most Common Area’ for strokes.
What is a classic syndrome associated with the MCA?
Unable to smile, speak clearly, or raise one arm
These symptoms are indicative of MCA stroke.
What are the clinical signs associated with the Posterior Cerebral Artery (PCA)?
Visual field deficits (homonymous hemianopsia), memory loss, sensory disturbances
Mnemonic: ‘PCA = Picture Can’t Appear’ for vision problems.
What is the relationship between the dorsal columns and the medulla?
Dorsal columns (vibration, proprioception) cross in the medulla
This pathway is essential for proprioceptive and vibratory sensation.
Where do the spinothalamic tracts cross?
In the spinal cord
This pathway carries pain and temperature sensations.
Where do the corticospinal tracts cross?
In the medullary pyramids
This pathway is responsible for motor control.
What are the symptoms of Brown-Séquard syndrome?
Ipsilateral weakness and proprioception loss, contralateral pain/temp loss
Visual hook: ‘Same side strength and sense, opposite side sting.’
