Edinger-Westphal nucleus

Edinger-Westphal nucleus is a part of the brain that plays a significant role in the parasympathetic nervous system. It is named after two neurologists, Ludwig Edinger and Carl Friedrich Otto Westphal, who made significant contributions to the field of neurology.

Function

The Edinger-Westphal nucleus is involved in the control of the pupil and the shape of the lens in the eye. It is responsible for the constriction of the pupil in response to bright light (a process known as pupillary light reflex) and for the accommodation reflex, which allows the eye to focus on near objects.

Anatomy

The Edinger-Westphal nucleus is located in the midbrain, specifically in the superior colliculus. It is a paired structure, with one nucleus present on each side of the midline. The neurons in the Edinger-Westphal nucleus send their axons to the ciliary ganglion, which in turn sends signals to the muscles controlling the pupil and lens.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Edinger-Westphal nucleus can result in a number of eye-related problems, including anisocoria (unequal pupil size), mydriasis (dilated pupils), and problems with accommodation. It can also result in Adie's pupil, a condition characterized by a sluggish reaction of the pupil to light.

See also

• Oculomotor nerve
• Parasympathetic nervous system
• Pupillary light reflex
• Ciliary ganglion

References

Edinger-Westphal nucleus Resources
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