Cervical enlargement

Cervical Enlargement

Diagram of the cervical enlargement of the spinal cord

The cervical enlargement is a significant anatomical feature of the spinal cord, located in the cervical region of the vertebral column. It is responsible for the increased neural input and output to the upper limbs.

Anatomy

The cervical enlargement extends from the third cervical vertebra (C3) to the second thoracic vertebra (T2). It is characterized by a noticeable increase in the diameter of the spinal cord in this region. This enlargement is due to the presence of a greater number of nerve cells and nerve fibers that supply the upper limbs.

Function

The primary function of the cervical enlargement is to accommodate the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervates the shoulder, arm, and hand. This region of the spinal cord contains the anterior horn cells that give rise to the motor neurons controlling the muscles of the upper limbs.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the cervical enlargement can result in significant neurological deficits, including paralysis or paresis of the upper limbs. Conditions such as cervical spondylotic myelopathy or trauma can affect this region, leading to clinical symptoms that require medical intervention.

Related Pages

• Spinal cord
• Brachial plexus
• Motor neuron
• Cervical vertebrae