Neuroanatomy Sensory Paths - Connections of the Cerebellum

Cerebellar afferents (tracts)

1. Spinocerebellar/vestibulocerebellar tract

2. Olivocerebellar tract

3. Pontocerebellar tract

Spinocerebellar/vestibulocerebellar tract is responsible for

Bringing proprioception into the cerebellum

The olivocerebellar tract is responsible for

Extrapyramidal motor information

The pontocerebellar tract is responsible for

Pyramidal motor information

Cerebellar efferents from Purkinje cells

1. To deep cerebellar nuclei

2. Deep cerebellar nuclei send fibers to UMN nuclei in the five divisions of the adult brainstem

3. Fibers travel through the rostral cerebellar peduncle to reach brainstem nuclei

Where do deep cerebellar nuclei send fibers to?

UMN nuclei in the five divisions of the adult brainstem

What part of the cerebellar peduncle do fibers from the cerebellar efferents from purkinje cells travel through to reach the brainstem nuclei?

Rostral cerebellar peduncle

Is the cerebellar function on the body typically contralateral or ipsilateral?

Ipsilateral

Dysmetria

Problems with rate, range, direction, and force of movement

What are cerebellar disease signs

1. Typically ipsilateral

2. Dysmetria

3. Broad based stance

4. Lack of coordination

5. Nystagmus, strabismus, head tilt due to vestibular connections

What does lack of coordination in cerebellar disease relate to?

Proprioceptive motor control functions of the cerebellum as it relates to the body system and limbs

Why do nystagmus, strabismus, and head tile occur from cerebellar disease?

Due to vestibular connections

Nystagmus

Involuntary movement of the eyes

Strabismus

Abnormal position of the eyes