Sympathetic roots of ciliary ganglia

the Sympathetic roots of ciliary ganglia:

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Sympathetic roots of ciliary ganglia

Diagram of efferent (motor) and afferent (sensory) nerves to the eye. (Sympathetic root of ciliary ganglion labeled at center right.)
Latin	Radices sympatheticae ganglii ciliaris
System	Nervous system

The Sympathetic roots of ciliary ganglia are a pair of nerve fibers that originate from the Internal carotid plexus and connect to the Ciliary ganglion. These roots carry sympathetic nerve fibers to the eye and are responsible for dilation of the pupil, a process known as mydriasis.

Structure

The sympathetic root of the ciliary ganglion is derived from the Internal carotid plexus, and it enters the ganglion from the posterior aspect. It carries postganglionic sympathetic fibers from the superior cervical ganglion.

Function

The sympathetic root of the ciliary ganglion carries sympathetic fibers that are responsible for dilation of the pupil (mydriasis) and inhibition of the ciliary muscle which controls the shape of the lens.

Clinical significance

Damage to the sympathetic root of the ciliary ganglion can result in Horner's syndrome, a condition characterized by miosis (constriction of the pupil), ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), and anhidrosis (lack of sweating).

See also

• Ciliary ganglion
• Internal carotid plexus
• Horner's syndrome