Medial eminence of floor of fourth ventricle

Medial eminence of floor of fourth ventricle

The Medial eminence is a key anatomical structure located on the floor of the fourth ventricle of the human brain. It is a raised area that is centrally positioned within the rhomboid fossa, which forms the floor of the fourth ventricle.

Anatomy

The medial eminence is bordered laterally by the sulcus limitans, and it is divided into a rostral superior part and a caudal inferior part by the facial colliculus. The superior part is also known as the vestibular area, which is associated with the vestibular nuclei, while the inferior part is related to the hypoglossal triangle and the vagal triangle.

The floor of the fourth ventricle. (Medial eminence not labeled, but region is visible.)

Function

The medial eminence, along with the other structures of the fourth ventricle, plays a crucial role in the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain. It also serves as a site for the attachment of ependymal cells, which are involved in the production and regulation of CSF.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the medial eminence can potentially disrupt the normal flow of CSF, leading to conditions such as hydrocephalus. It may also affect the functioning of the associated nuclei, resulting in various neurological symptoms.

See also

• Fourth ventricle
• Rhomboid fossa
• Vestibular nuclei
• Hypoglossal triangle
• Vagal triangle