Human Anatomy and Physiology Lecture: The Central Nervous System

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to the Central Nervous System as studied in the Human Anatomy and Physiology lecture.

Limbic system

A network of neurons in the brain involved in emotion, behavior, and memory.

Reticular formation

A structure in the brain stem that regulates consciousness and alertness.

Hippocampus

A part of the limbic system crucial for memory formation.

Amygdaloid body

A component of the limbic system that assesses danger and elicits fear responses.

Broca's area

Brain region involved in speech production; damage leads to difficulty speaking but understanding remains intact.

Wernicke's area

Brain area responsible for understanding spoken and written language; damage results in nonsensical speech.

Declarative memory

Memory for facts and events that can be consciously recalled.

Procedural memory

Memory for skills and tasks that are performed automatically.

Anterograde amnesia

Inability to form new memories after a traumatic event or injury.

Retrograde amnesia

Loss of memories that were formed before a traumatic event or injury.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A test that measures electrical activity in the brain.

Alpha waves

Brain waves associated with a relaxed, awake state, typically ranging from 8 to 13 Hz.

Delirium

An acute state of confusion that can be reversible.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

A clear fluid surrounding and protecting the brain and spinal cord.

Blood-Brain Barrier

A selective barrier that prevents certain substances in the bloodstream from entering the brain.

Hydrocephalus

A condition characterized by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, leading to increased pressure.

Alzheimer's disease

A progressive neurological disorder that leads to memory loss and cognitive decline.

Parkinson's disease

A degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement and causes tremors.

Huntington's disease

A genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain.

Meningitis

Infection and inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.