Posterolateral sulci of spinal cords

Posterolateral Sulci of Spinal Cord

The posterolateral sulci of the spinal cord are two longitudinal grooves located on the posterior aspect of the spinal cord. These sulci are important anatomical landmarks that play a crucial role in the organization of the spinal cord's white matter and the entry of sensory nerve fibers.

Anatomy

The posterolateral sulci are situated on either side of the posterior median sulcus, which runs along the midline of the posterior surface of the spinal cord. Each posterolateral sulcus marks the entry point for the dorsal roots of the spinal nerves. These dorsal roots carry sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the central nervous system.

Function

The primary function of the posterolateral sulci is to serve as the entry points for the dorsal roots of the spinal nerves. These roots contain the axons of sensory neurons, which transmit sensory information such as touch, pain, temperature, and proprioception from the body to the spinal cord. Once the sensory information enters the spinal cord through the dorsal roots, it is processed and relayed to higher centers in the brain for further interpretation.

Clinical Significance

Damage or lesions affecting the posterolateral sulci can lead to sensory deficits, as the dorsal roots entering through these sulci are responsible for transmitting sensory information. Conditions such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and other neurodegenerative diseases can impact the integrity of the posterolateral sulci and the associated sensory pathways.

Related Structures

• Spinal cord
• Posterior median sulcus
• Dorsal root ganglion
• Spinal nerves
• Central nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system

See Also

• Anterior median fissure
• Lateral funiculus
• Gray matter
• White matter
• Sensory neuron
• Motor neuron