Posterolateral sulcus of spinal cord

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The posterolateral sulcus is a notable anatomical feature of the spinal cord. It is a longitudinal groove found on each side of the posterior aspect of the spinal cord. This sulcus serves as the entry point for the posterior nerve roots (also known as dorsal roots) into the spinal cord.

Anatomy

The posterolateral sulcus is located between the posterior median sulcus and the posterior intermediate sulcus. It runs parallel to the length of the spinal cord and is present throughout its entire length. The sulcus is more pronounced in the cervical and thoracic regions of the spinal cord.

Function

The primary function of the posterolateral sulcus is to provide a pathway for the posterior nerve roots to enter the spinal cord. These nerve roots carry sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the central nervous system. The sensory information includes touch, pain, temperature, and proprioception.

Clinical Significance

Damage or lesions to the posterolateral sulcus can affect the sensory pathways entering the spinal cord, potentially leading to sensory deficits. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries can impact this area, resulting in various neurological symptoms.

Related Structures

• Anterior median fissure
• Posterior median sulcus
• Posterior intermediate sulcus
• Spinal cord
• Posterior nerve roots
• Central nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system

See Also

• Spinal cord anatomy
• Nervous system
• Neurology
• Neuroanatomy

Related Pages

• Spinal cord
• Posterior nerve roots
• Central nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord injuries