Inferior colliculus
Inferior Colliculus
The Inferior Colliculus (pronounced: in-FEER-ee-or koh-LIK-yoo-lus) is a part of the brainstem that serves as the main auditory (sound-processing) center in the mammalian brain. The term "Inferior Colliculus" comes from the Latin words 'inferior' meaning 'lower', and 'colliculus' meaning 'small hill', referring to its position and shape in the brainstem.
Structure
The Inferior Colliculus is a round, mound-like structure located in the tectum of the midbrain. It is part of the auditory pathway and receives input from several peripheral brainstem nuclei, as well as inputs from the auditory cortex. The Inferior Colliculus has two main subdivisions: the central nucleus and the surrounding pericollicular cortex.
Function
The primary role of the Inferior Colliculus is to process auditory information and send it to the thalamus, which then relays the information to the auditory cortex. It plays a crucial role in the localization of sound sources, pitch discrimination, and selective attention to auditory space.
Clinical Significance
Damage to the Inferior Colliculus can result in a variety of auditory deficits, including difficulties in sound localization and pitch discrimination. It can also lead to tinnitus, a condition characterized by the perception of sound when no actual external noise is present.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Inferior colliculus
- Wikipedia's article - Inferior colliculus
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