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Neuroanatomy


Synopsis


A. R. Crossman (author), David Neary (author), Ben Crossman (illustrator)

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Neuroanatomy

This chapter provides an overview of the field of neuroanatomy, including its history, scope, and importance. It also discusses basic anatomical concepts, such as planes of section and the three-dimensional organization of the brain.

Example: The midbrain, which is located between the cerebrum and the pons, is oriented in the sagittal plane and has a three-dimensional shape that can be visualized using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Chapter 2: The Spinal Cord

This chapter describes the anatomy of the spinal cord, including its protective coverings, cross-sectional organization, and major tracts. It also covers the spinal nerves and their distribution.

Example: A cross-section of the spinal cord at the cervical level shows a butterfly-shaped gray matter surrounded by white matter. The dorsal horns of the gray matter receive sensory information, while the ventral horns contain motor neurons.

Chapter 3: The Brainstem

This chapter discusses the anatomy of the brainstem, which includes the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain. It covers the major structures and functions of each region, as well as the connections between them.

Example: The medulla oblongata contains the vital centers that control breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The pons contains the nuclei of several cranial nerves, including the facial nerve (CN VII) and the trigeminal nerve (CN V).

Chapter 4: The Cerebellum

This chapter describes the anatomy of the cerebellum, including its external features, internal structure, and connections with the rest of the brain. It also covers the functions of the cerebellum, such as motor coordination and balance.

Example: The cerebellum has a characteristic foliated appearance and is located posterior to the brainstem. It receives sensory input from the body and motor output from the cortex, and it plays a role in coordinating voluntary movements.

Chapter 5: The Diencephalon

This chapter discusses the anatomy of the diencephalon, which includes the thalamus, hypothalamus, and epithalamus. It covers the major structures and functions of each region, as well as the connections between them.

Example: The thalamus is a large structure that relays sensory information to the cortex. The hypothalamus is a small region that plays a role in regulating body temperature, hunger, thirst, and sleep-wake cycles.

Chapter 6: The Telencephalon

This chapter describes the anatomy of the telencephalon, which includes the cerebral hemispheres, basal ganglia, and limbic system. It covers the major structures and functions of each region, as well as the connections between them.

Example: The cerebral hemispheres are the largest part of the brain and contain the primary sensory and motor cortices. The basal ganglia are a group of structures that play a role in motor control and habit formation. The limbic system is a group of structures that are involved in emotion, memory, and learning.