Pyramidal tracts

Pyramidal tracts are a group of motor pathways that originate in the cerebral cortex and travel down the spinal cord. They are responsible for the voluntary control of the musculature of the body and face. The pyramidal tracts include both the corticospinal tract and the corticobulbar tract.

Anatomy

The pyramidal tracts are named for their pyramid-like shape in the medulla oblongata. They are composed of upper and lower motor neurons. The upper motor neurons originate in the cerebral cortex and synapse with the lower motor neurons, which are located in the spinal cord. The lower motor neurons then send their axons out to the muscles of the body and face.

Function

The primary function of the pyramidal tracts is to carry motor information from the cerebral cortex to the muscles of the body and face. This allows for voluntary movement and fine motor control. The corticospinal tract primarily serves the muscles of the body, while the corticobulbar tract serves the muscles of the face.

Clinical significance

Damage to the pyramidal tracts can result in a variety of motor deficits. These can include spastic paralysis, muscle weakness, and Babinski sign. The specific symptoms can vary depending on the location and extent of the damage.

See also

• Motor system
• Upper motor neuron
• Lower motor neuron
• Corticospinal tract
• Corticobulbar tract

References

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