Study Guide Flashcards
(121 cards)
Compare and contrast the organization of gray and white matter in the brain.
Gray matter contains neuronal cell bodies, while white matter consists of myelinated axons.
Describe the characteristics of the cranial meninges and the cranial dural septa.
The cranial meninges consist of three layers: dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. The cranial dural septa are extensions of the dura mater that separate different brain regions.
Explain the origin, function, and pattern of cerebrospinal fluid circulation.
Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the choroid plexus, circulates through the ventricles, and is absorbed into the bloodstream via arachnoid granulations.
Describe the structure of the blood-brain barrier and how it protects the brain.
The blood-brain barrier is formed by tight junctions between endothelial cells, preventing harmful substances from entering the brain while allowing essential nutrients to pass.
Identify and describe the anatomic structures and functional areas of the cerebrum.
The cerebrum includes the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes, each responsible for different functions such as movement, sensation, and vision.
Describe the tracts associated with the central white matter of the cerebrum.
The central white matter contains association tracts, commissural tracts, and projection tracts that facilitate communication within the cerebrum and with other brain regions.
Identify the divisions of the diencephalon, and describe their functions.
The diencephalon includes the thalamus (sensory relay), hypothalamus (homeostasis), and epithalamus (melatonin production).
Identify the components of the brainstem, and describe their functions.
The brainstem consists of the midbrain (vision and hearing), pons (regulation of breathing), and medulla oblongata (heart rate and blood pressure).
Describe the structure and functions of the cerebellum.
The cerebellum has a highly folded surface and is involved in coordination, balance, and fine motor control.
List the names and identify the locations of the twelve cranial nerves.
The twelve cranial nerves are: I (Olfactory), II (Optic), III (Oculomotor), IV (Trochlear), V (Trigeminal), VI (Abducens), VII (Facial), VIII (Vestibulocochlear), IX (Glossopharyngeal), X (Vagus), XI (Accessory), XII (Hypoglossal).
Describe the principal functions of each cranial nerve.
Cranial nerves serve functions such as sensory input, motor control, and autonomic functions.
Describe the structure of the spinal cord.
The spinal cord is a cylindrical structure with a central canal, surrounded by gray matter and white matter.
Identify and describe the different regions and features of the spinal cord.
The spinal cord is divided into cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions, each with specific features and functions.
Explain the arrangement and functions of the spinal meninges.
The spinal meninges consist of dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater, providing protection and support to the spinal cord.
Describe the internal anatomy of the spinal cord.
The internal anatomy includes gray matter (dorsal and ventral horns) and white matter (ascending and descending tracts).
List and describe the spinal nerve branches.
Spinal nerves branch into dorsal and ventral rami, which innervate specific body regions.
Define the concept of a dermatome, and explain the clinical importance of a dermatome.
A dermatome is an area of skin innervated by a single spinal nerve, important for diagnosing nerve injuries.
Compare and contrast the structure, distribution, and innervation patterns for each of the spinal nerve plexuses.
Spinal nerve plexuses include the cervical, brachial, lumbar, and sacral plexuses, each with distinct structures and innervation patterns.
Compare and contrast the anatomy and functions of the SNS and the ANS.
The SNS (somatic nervous system) controls voluntary movements, while the ANS (autonomic nervous system) regulates involuntary functions.
Explain how the two-neuron pathway facilitates communication and control in the ANS.
The ANS uses a two-neuron pathway (preganglionic and postganglionic neurons) to transmit signals from the CNS to effectors.
Describe the functional differences between the parasympathetic and the sympathetic divisions.
The parasympathetic division promotes rest and digest functions, while the sympathetic division prepares the body for fight or flight responses.
Compare and contrast the anatomic components of the parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions.
The parasympathetic division has long preganglionic fibers and short postganglionic fibers, while the sympathetic division has short preganglionic fibers and long postganglionic fibers.
Describe the anatomy of the parasympathetic division.
The parasympathetic division originates from the brainstem and sacral spinal cord, with cranial nerves III, VII, IX, and X involved.
Explain the relationship of the parasympathetic division to the brain, the cranial components, and the pelvic splanchnic nerves.
The parasympathetic division connects to the brain via cranial nerves and to the pelvic organs via pelvic splanchnic nerves.