Dorsal longitudinal fasciculus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Dorsal Longitudinal Fasciculus[edit | edit source]

The Dorsal Longitudinal Fasciculus (DLF) is a bundle of axons in the brain that carries information from the hypothalamus to the brainstem and spinal cord. It is one of the major pathways for the transmission of visceral information in the brain.

File:Dorsal longitudinal fasciculus.png
Dorsal Longitudinal Fasciculus

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Dorsal Longitudinal Fasciculus is located in the medial part of the brainstem. It originates in the hypothalamus, specifically in the periventricular and supraoptic nuclei, and descends through the midbrain and pons to the medulla and spinal cord.

Function[edit | edit source]

The DLF carries information from the hypothalamus to the brainstem and spinal cord. This information is primarily related to visceral functions, including cardiovascular and respiratory control, as well as pain modulation.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the Dorsal Longitudinal Fasciculus can result in a variety of neurological disorders, including autonomic dysreflexia, a condition characterized by sudden and severe high blood pressure.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD