Spinal Cord: Anterolateral System

i <3 neurology

Spinothalamic tract

A major pathway of the anterolateral system that transmits pain, temperature, and crude touch sensations from the body to the thalamus. Important for creating awareness + identifying location of painful stimuli

Spinomesencephalic tract

A pathway in the anterolateral system that carries pain and temperature sensations to the midbrain, playing a role in pain modulation and response. Inhibits painful sensations

Spinoreticular tract

A pathway in the anterolateral system that conveys pain and temperature information to the reticular formation, influencing arousal and emotional responses to pain. Directs attention to painful stimuli

Which major system is the anterolateral system a component of?

Somato sensory system