Foramina of Luschka

Anatomical structures in the human brain

General Information
Latin	aperturae laterales ventriculi quarti
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Central nervous system
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor	Rhombencephalon
Function	Allows cerebrospinal fluid to flow from the fourth ventricle into the subarachnoid space
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The foramina of Luschka, also known as the lateral apertures, are two openings in the human brain that allow the passage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the fourth ventricle into the subarachnoid space. These foramina are named after the German anatomist Hubert von Luschka, who first described them in the 19th century.

Anatomy

The foramina of Luschka are located at the lateral recesses of the fourth ventricle, which is part of the ventricular system of the brain. The fourth ventricle is situated between the pons and the medulla oblongata in the brainstem, and it is continuous with the cerebral aqueduct above and the central canal of the spinal cord below.

Each foramen of Luschka is positioned laterally at the junction where the fourth ventricle extends into the subarachnoid space. The foramina are paired structures, with one located on each side of the fourth ventricle. They are responsible for draining CSF from the ventricular system into the subarachnoid space, where it can circulate around the brain and spinal cord.

Function

The primary function of the foramina of Luschka is to facilitate the flow of cerebrospinal fluid from the fourth ventricle into the subarachnoid space. This flow is crucial for maintaining the balance and circulation of CSF, which provides cushioning and protection for the brain and spinal cord, removes waste products, and helps maintain homeostasis within the central nervous system.

Clinical significance

Obstruction or malformation of the foramina of Luschka can lead to conditions such as hydrocephalus, where the accumulation of CSF causes increased intracranial pressure. This can result in symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, neurological deficits. Diagnosis of such conditions often involves imaging techniques like MRI or CT scan to visualize the ventricular system and assess the flow of CSF.

History

The foramina of Luschka were first described by Hubert von Luschka in the 19th century. His work contributed significantly to the understanding of the anatomy of the ventricular system and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Also see

• Foramen of Magendie
• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Ventricular system
• Hydrocephalus
• Fourth ventricle

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