Conus medullaris
Conus Medullaris
The Conus Medullaris (pronounced: KOH-nus meh-duh-LAIR-is) is a structure present at the terminal end of the spinal cord. It is a cone-shaped neurological element that marks the official end of the spinal cord around the level of the first lumbar vertebra (L1).
Etymology
The term "Conus Medullaris" is derived from Latin, where "conus" means cone and "medullaris" refers to the inner or marrow-like part. Thus, the term literally translates to "marrow-like cone".
Anatomy
The Conus Medullaris is located in the vertebral column and is the terminal end of the spinal cord. It is situated around the L1 and L2 vertebrae in adults, and around L3 in neonates. The Conus Medullaris gives rise to a bundle of nerve roots at the end of the spinal cord, known as the cauda equina.
Clinical Significance
Damage or injury to the Conus Medullaris can result in Conus Medullaris Syndrome, a condition characterized by lower back pain, loss of bladder and bowel control, and sexual dysfunction. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
Related Terms
- Spinal Cord: The part of the central nervous system enclosed in the vertebral column.
- Cauda Equina: The bundle of spinal nerves and spinal nerve rootlets, consisting of the second through fifth lumbar nerve pairs, the first through fifth sacral nerve pairs, and the coccygeal nerve.
- Conus Medullaris Syndrome: A condition caused by damage to the Conus Medullaris, resulting in lower back pain, loss of bladder and bowel control, and sexual dysfunction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Conus medullaris
- Wikipedia's article - Conus medullaris
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