Cornu laterale medullae spinalis

Cornu laterale medullae spinalis

The Cornu laterale medullae spinalis is a structure found in the spinal cord. It is also known as the lateral horn of the spinal cord. This article will provide a detailed overview of the Cornu laterale medullae spinalis, including its anatomy, function, and clinical significance.

Anatomy

The Cornu laterale medullae spinalis is located in the gray matter of the spinal cord. It is present in the thoracic and upper lumbar regions of the spinal cord. The gray matter of the spinal cord is divided into different regions, including the dorsal horn, ventral horn, and the lateral horn. The Cornu laterale medullae spinalis is a part of the lateral horn.

The Cornu laterale medullae spinalis contains cell bodies of autonomic motor neurons. These neurons are responsible for controlling involuntary functions of the body, such as the regulation of blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion. The autonomic motor neurons in the Cornu laterale medullae spinalis are involved in the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system.

Function

The Cornu laterale medullae spinalis plays a crucial role in the regulation of the sympathetic nervous system. It receives inputs from higher centers in the brain, such as the hypothalamus, and sends out efferent signals to various organs and tissues in the body. These signals help in the coordination of the body's response to stress, exercise, and other physiological demands.

The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. When the body perceives a threat or stressor, the Cornu laterale medullae spinalis activates the sympathetic neurons, leading to increased heart rate, dilation of blood vessels, and mobilization of energy stores. This response prepares the body for action and helps in dealing with the perceived threat.

Clinical Significance

The Cornu laterale medullae spinalis can be affected by various neurological disorders. Damage or dysfunction of this structure can lead to dysregulation of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in abnormal physiological responses. For example, damage to the Cornu laterale medullae spinalis can lead to conditions such as autonomic dysreflexia, which is characterized by episodes of high blood pressure, sweating, and other autonomic symptoms.

Understanding the anatomy and function of the Cornu laterale medullae spinalis is important in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. Medical professionals, such as neurologists and neurosurgeons, rely on this knowledge to identify and manage conditions that involve the sympathetic nervous system.

See Also

• Spinal cord
• Gray matter
• Autonomic nervous system
• Sympathetic nervous system