Pacchionian foramen

Anatomical feature in the human skull

The Pacchionian foramen, also known as the foramen of Pacchioni, is an anatomical feature located in the human skull. It is associated with the dura mater and plays a role in the drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the venous system.

Anatomy

The Pacchionian foramen is situated in the dura mater, the tough outermost membrane enveloping the brain and spinal cord. It is closely related to the arachnoid granulations, which are small protrusions of the arachnoid mater into the dural venous sinuses. These granulations facilitate the transfer of CSF from the subarachnoid space into the venous circulation.

Diagram of the tentorium cerebelli

Function

The primary function of the Pacchionian foramen is to allow the passage of CSF from the subarachnoid space into the superior sagittal sinus, a large venous channel located within the dura mater. This process is crucial for maintaining the balance of CSF within the central nervous system and for the removal of waste products from the brain.

Clinical Significance

The Pacchionian foramen and the associated arachnoid granulations can be involved in various pathological conditions. For instance, impaired CSF absorption through these structures can lead to conditions such as hydrocephalus, where there is an abnormal accumulation of CSF in the brain. Understanding the anatomy and function of the Pacchionian foramen is important for diagnosing and treating such conditions.

Diagram of the dural venous sinuses

History

The Pacchionian foramen is named after the Italian anatomist Antonio Pacchioni, who made significant contributions to the understanding of the dura mater and its structures in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. His work laid the foundation for modern neuroanatomy and the study of the cranial venous system.

Related pages

• Dura mater
• Arachnoid mater
• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Hydrocephalus
• Superior sagittal sinus