Central Nervous System (CNS) Overview

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and structures of the Central Nervous System from the provided lecture notes.

What are the two main components of the Central Nervous System (CNS)?

The brain and spinal cord.

What is the primary function of the white matter in the CNS?

White matter consists of myelinated axons (tracts) that connect brain regions and carry sensory or motor impulses.

What does gray matter primarily consist of?

Gray matter consists of cell bodies, dendrites, unmyelinated axons, and neuroglia.

What are the three functional areas of the cerebral cortex?

Motor, sensory, and association areas.

What are association fibers in the cerebral white matter?

Association fibers connect different parts of the same hemisphere (gyrus to gyrus).

What are the three regions of the Diencephalon?

Thalamus, hypothalamus, and epithalamus.

What is the function of the thalamus?

The thalamus serves as a relay station for sensory (afferent) impulses to the cerebral cortex and motor (efferent) impulses from the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord.

What is the significance of the hypothalamus?

The hypothalamus controls and integrates the autonomic nervous system, emotional response, body temperature regulation, and the endocrine system.

What area of the brain is primarily responsible for voluntary skeletal muscle movement?

The primary motor cortex.

What is the role of the reticular formation?

The reticular formation maintains consciousness, regulates visceral functions, and coordinates movements.

What distinguishes the left hemisphere from the right hemisphere in terms of function?

The left hemisphere controls language, math, and logic, while the right hemisphere controls visual-spatial skills, emotion, and artistic skills.

What protects the brain?

The brain is protected by bones of the skull, meninges (dura mater, arachnoid mater, pia mater), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the blood-brain barrier.

What is the role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

CSF functions as a shock absorber, provides an optimal chemical environment for neurons, and aids in circulation and waste removal.

What happens in the event of hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is characterized by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles, putting pressure on the brain.

What is the primary function of the corpus callosum?

The corpus callosum contains commissural fibers that connect corresponding gray areas of the two cerebral hemispheres.

What is meningitis and how can it be diagnosed?

Meningitis is an infection of the meninges; it can be diagnosed by examining cerebrospinal fluid for infectious agents.