Posterior colliculus

Posterior Colliculus

The Posterior Colliculus is a small rounded eminence located on the dorsal aspect of the corpora quadrigemina, specifically on the superior colliculus. It is a part of the midbrain structure and plays a significant role in the processing of visual information.

Posterior Colliculus is located on the superior colliculus of the midbrain.

Structure

The posterior colliculus is a part of the tectum, the dorsal surface of the midbrain. It is one of the four colliculi - two inferior and two superior - that together form the corpora quadrigemina. The posterior colliculus corresponds to the superior colliculus, which is involved in preliminary visual processing and control of eye movements.

Function

The primary function of the posterior colliculus is related to visual processing. It receives direct input from the retina and plays a crucial role in the generation of eye movements, particularly saccades. It also contributes to the integration of visual information with other sensory modalities.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the posterior colliculus can result in a variety of visual and oculomotor deficits. These can include difficulty in tracking moving objects, impaired ability to direct gaze towards novel stimuli, and disturbances in visual attention.

See Also

• Corpora quadrigemina
• Superior colliculus
• Midbrain
• Tectum

External Links

• Anatomy of the Posterior Colliculus at the National Library of Medicine