Central Nervous System Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts of brain structures, functions, pathophysiology, and neurological assessments.

What is the pathway of the somatosensory pathway from receptors to the somatosensory cortex?

Receptor → First-order neuron → Second-order neuron → Third-order neuron → Somatosensory cortex.

Where are second-order neurons located in the somatosensory pathway?

They are found in the spinal cord dorsal horn for pain/temperature or in the medulla for fine touch and proprioception.

What major functions do the basal ganglia serve in movement?

They inhibit inappropriate movements, maintain balance of excitatory and inhibitory inputs, and select/maintain purposeful motor activity.

What characterizes Parkinson's disease?

Degeneration of the basal ganglia and deficiency of dopamine, leading to resting tremors, rigidity, and slowed movements.

What type of stroke results from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain?

Haemorrhagic stroke.

What kind of sensory information is conveyed by the spinothalamic tract?

Pain, temperature, and crude touch.

What is the primary function of cranial nerve VII?

Facial muscle movements and sensations.

What is a positive Babinski sign indicative of?

An upper motor neuron lesion.

How does an upper motor neuron lesion affect muscle tone?

It typically increases muscle tone and reflexes.

What tests are used to diagnose epilepsy?

Electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure brain electrical activity.

What is the effect of an anaesthetic on neurons?

It blocks sodium channels, preventing action potentials and impulse transmission.

What triggers the withdrawal reflex?

A painful stimulus activates thermal pain receptors, leading to muscle contraction.