Subarachnoid cistern

Subarachnoid cisterns are anatomical spaces filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) located in the subarachnoid space in the brain. They are formed where the arachnoid mater and the pia mater separate from each other. These cisterns serve as reservoirs for the CSF, which bathes and cushions the brain and spinal cord within the central nervous system (CNS).

Anatomy

The subarachnoid cisterns are located at various points around the brain and spinal cord. Some of the most notable cisterns include the cisterna magna, the largest of the cisterns located between the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata; the pontine cistern, located at the front of the pons; and the interpeduncular cistern, located at the base of the brain between the two cerebral peduncles.

Function

The primary function of the subarachnoid cisterns is to act as reservoirs for the CSF. This fluid serves several important functions in the CNS, including providing buoyancy and protection for the brain and spinal cord, supplying nutrients to the nervous tissue, and removing waste products.

Clinical significance

Subarachnoid cisterns are important in clinical medicine, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as subarachnoid hemorrhage, which involves bleeding into the subarachnoid space. They can also be involved in certain types of cerebrospinal fluid leaks, which can lead to conditions such as meningitis.

See also

• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Subarachnoid space
• Arachnoid mater
• Pia mater
• Central nervous system