Medulla spinalis

Medulla Spinalis (or the Spinal Cord) is a long, thin, tubular structure made up of nervous tissue, which extends from the medulla oblongata in the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It encloses the central canal of the spinal cord, which contains cerebrospinal fluid. The brain and spinal cord together make up the central nervous system (CNS).

Structure

The spinal cord is a long, thin, tubular bundle of nervous tissue and support cells that extends from the medulla oblongata in the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. The brain and spinal cord together make up the central nervous system. In humans, the spinal cord begins at the occipital bone and extends down to the space between the first and second lumbar vertebrae; it does not extend the entire length of the vertebral column.

Function

The spinal cord functions primarily in the transmission of nerve signals from the motor cortex to the body, and from the afferent fibers of the sensory neurons to the sensory cortex. It is also a center for coordinating many reflexes and contains reflex arcs that can independently control reflexes.

Clinical significance

Damage to the spinal cord can cause paralysis or loss of sensation. The extent of these symptoms depends on the location of the damage along the spinal cord and whether the spinal cord is completely or partially severed.

See also

• Brain
• Central nervous system
• Nervous system
• Vertebral column

Medulla spinalis Resources
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