Structures of the Central Nervous System

Overview

The major structures of the central nervous system support cognition, movement, sensation and endocrine control. This section introduces the principal anatomical regions of the brain and spinal cord, providing a framework for understanding their organisation and function.

Key Structures

Topics include the cerebrum, cerebellum, basal ganglia, meninges, pineal and pituitary glands, and grey matter of the spinal cord. Each page outlines structure, functions and notable anatomical relationships.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of these structures supports understanding of neurological disease, endocrine disorders and trauma. This content helps learners localise lesions, interpret imaging and integrate structure with function when assessing the nervous system.

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Illustration of the components of the basal ganglia and their anatomical relations.

The Basal Ganglia

Illustration of the lobes of the cerebral cortex, highlighting their anatomical regions.

The Cerebrum

Illustration of the anatomical position of the cerebellum, located inferior to the cerebrum and posterior to the pons.

The Cerebellum

Illustration of the meninges surrounding the brain, highlighting their relationship to the skull.

The Meninges

Sagittal section of the brain illustrating the midline position of the pineal gland.

The Pineal Gland

Anatomical position and relations of the pituitary gland.

The Pituitary Gland

Illustration of the four columns of grey matter in the spinal cord.

The Grey Matter of the Spinal Cord

Popular

Diagram illustrating the contents of the quadrangular space, highlighting the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery.
Anatomical Areas

The Quadrangular Space

by Dr Oliver Jones

Diagram illustrating the superior and inferior branches of the oculomotor nerve within the orbit.
The Cranial Nerves

The Oculomotor Nerve (CN III)

by Navin Leanage

Diagram illustrating the course of the thoracoacromial trunk and its four terminal branches.
Encyclopaedia

Thoracoacromial Artery

by Aren Mnatzakanian