Dorsal body cavity

Anatomical cavity located along the dorsal (posterior) side of the human body

The dorsal body cavity is one of the two main body cavities, the other being the ventral body cavity. It is located along the dorsal (posterior) side of the human body and is subdivided into the cranial cavity and the spinal cavity.

Diagram showing the dorsal and ventral body cavities

Cranial cavity

The cranial cavity is the space within the skull that houses the brain. It is formed by the cranial bones and provides protection to the brain. The cranial cavity is continuous with the spinal cavity, allowing the central nervous system to be enclosed within a protective bony structure.

Spinal cavity

The spinal cavity, also known as the vertebral cavity, is a long, narrow cavity that runs along the back of the body. It is formed by the vertebrae of the spinal column and contains the spinal cord. The spinal cavity is continuous with the cranial cavity at the foramen magnum, where the brainstem extends into the spinal cord.

Function

The primary function of the dorsal body cavity is to protect the central nervous system. The bony structures of the skull and vertebrae provide a hard, protective barrier against physical damage. Additionally, the cerebrospinal fluid within these cavities acts as a cushion, further protecting the brain and spinal cord from injury.

Related pages

• Ventral body cavity
• Cranial cavity
• Spinal cavity
• Central nervous system