Choroidal fissure

General Information
Latin	fissura choroidea
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Central nervous system
Artery	Anterior choroidal artery
Vein	Choroidal vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The choroidal fissure is a key anatomical feature of the brain, specifically located within the lateral ventricle. It plays a crucial role in the development and function of the central nervous system.

Anatomy

The choroidal fissure is a C-shaped cleft found in the medial wall of the lateral ventricle. It is situated between the fornix and the thalamus. The fissure extends from the interventricular foramen (of Monro) to the inferior horn of the lateral ventricle.

Location

The choroidal fissure is located in the medial aspect of the lateral ventricle. It is bordered superiorly by the fornix and inferiorly by the thalamus. The fissure is an important landmark for neurosurgeons and radiologists as it provides access to the third ventricle and the choroid plexus.

Structure

The choroidal fissure is formed during embryonic development as the telencephalon and diencephalon differentiate. It is a natural cleft that allows the choroid plexus to invaginate into the lateral ventricle. The choroid plexus is responsible for the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Function

The primary function of the choroidal fissure is to accommodate the choroid plexus, which produces cerebrospinal fluid. The CSF circulates through the ventricular system and the subarachnoid space, providing cushioning and protection for the brain and spinal cord.

Clinical Significance

The choroidal fissure is of clinical importance in several contexts:

Surgical Access

The choroidal fissure is a critical landmark for neurosurgeons. It provides a natural corridor to access deep-seated brain structures such as the third ventricle, thalamus, and hypothalamus. Surgical approaches to the choroidal fissure are used in procedures to treat conditions like colloid cysts, tumors, and hydrocephalus.

Pathology

Pathological conditions involving the choroidal fissure include:

• Choroidal Fissure Cysts: These are benign cysts that can occur along the choroidal fissure. They are often asymptomatic but can cause symptoms if they compress adjacent structures.
• Vascular Lesions: The proximity of the choroidal fissure to major blood vessels like the anterior choroidal artery makes it a site of interest in vascular pathologies.

Imaging

The choroidal fissure can be visualized using advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scan. These imaging modalities help in diagnosing pathologies associated with the fissure and planning surgical interventions.

Development

During embryonic development, the choroidal fissure forms as the telencephalon and diencephalon develop. The fissure is a result of the invagination of the choroid plexus into the lateral ventricle, which is crucial for the production of cerebrospinal fluid.

See Also

• Lateral ventricle
• Choroid plexus
• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Anterior choroidal artery

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