Cisterns
Cisterns (Medical)
Cisterns (pronunciation: /ˈsɪstərnz/) are a significant part of the anatomy of the brain. They are enlarged subarachnoid spaces that contain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and allow movement of the brain within the skull.
Etymology
The term "cistern" originates from the Latin word "cisterna," which means a reservoir for liquids. In the context of brain anatomy, cisterns serve as reservoirs for the cerebrospinal fluid.
Types of Cisterns
There are several types of cisterns in the brain, including:
- Interpeduncular cistern - located at the base of the brain.
- Cisterna magna (or posterior cerebellomedullary cistern) - located between the cerebellum and the dorsal surface of the medulla oblongata.
- Quadrigeminal cistern - located near the midbrain.
- Prepontine cistern - located anterior to the pons.
- Ambient cistern - located lateral to the midbrain.
Function
Cisterns play a crucial role in protecting the brain from injury by allowing it to move within the skull. They also facilitate the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which provides nutrients to the brain and removes waste products.
Related Terms
- Subarachnoid space - the space in the brain and spinal cord through which cerebrospinal fluid flows.
- Cerebrospinal fluid - a clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord.
- Brain - the organ that serves as the center of the nervous system in all vertebrate and most invertebrate animals.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cisterns
- Wikipedia's article - Cisterns
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