Neuroanatomy Vocabulary Flashcards

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to neuroanatomy.

Neurofibril Node

A gap in the myelin sheath of a nerve fiber that facilitates the rapid transmission of nerve impulses.

Neurilemma

The thin membrane that envelops the axon of a nerve fiber.

Dendrites

Branch-like structures of a neuron that receive messages from other neurons.

Axon Hillock

The cone-shaped area of a neuron where the axon begins and action potentials are initiated.

Myelin Sheath

A fatty layer that surrounds the axons of some neurons, speeding up signal transmission.

Endoneurium

The connective tissue sheath that surrounds individual nerve fibers.

Epineurium

The outermost layer of connective tissue that encases a peripheral nerve.

Perineurium

The connective tissue sheath that surrounds a bundle of nerve fibers (fascicle).

Synaptic Knobs

The terminal ends of axons that release neurotransmitters to communicate with other neurons.

Fascicle

A bundle of nerve fibers (axons) within a nerve.

Rami Communicantes

Communicating branches that connect sympathetic nerves to spinal nerves.

Terminal Branches (Telodendria)

The final branches of an axon that lead to synaptic terminals.

Dura Mater

The tough outer layer of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Arachnoid Mater

The middle layer of the meninges, which contains cerebrospinal fluid.

Pia Mater

The delicate innermost layer of the meninges that directly adheres to the surface of the brain and spinal cord.

Ganglion

A cluster of nerve cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system.

Spinal Nerve

A nerve that emerges from the spinal cord, consisting of both sensory and motor fibers.

Gray Matter

Regions of the central nervous system consisting primarily of neuronal cell bodies.

White Matter

Regions of the central nervous system primarily composed of myelinated axons.

Sympathetic Chain

A chain of ganglia located alongside the vertebral column that is part of the autonomic nervous system.

Filum Terminale

A fibrous extension of the pia mater, anchoring the spinal cord to the coccyx.

Cauda Equina

A bundle of spinal nerves and nerve roots coming from the lower end of the spinal cord.