Medulla oblongata

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Clinic

  • Medulla oblongata, often just referred to as the medulla, is the lower half of the brainstem continuous with the spinal cord. Its upper part is continuous with the pons.
  • It contains the cardiac, dorsal and ventral respiratory groups, and vasomotor centres, dealing with
    • Heart rate
    • Breathing
    • Blood pressure
    • Control of vomiting


Function

It connects the higher levels of the brain to the spinal cord, and is responsible for several functions of the autonomous nervous system which include:

  • Control of ventilation via signals from the carotid and aortic bodies
  • Cardiovascular center: Sympathetic, parasympathetic nervous system
  • Vasomotor center (Baroreceptors)
  • Vomiting, Coughing, Sneezing and Swallowing through to Motor control of visceral reflexes
    • Pharyngeal reflex
    • Swallowing reflex (Palatal reflex)
    • Masseter reflex (Bulbar reflexes)
  • Speech: Motor reflex control of larynx, pharynx and tongue
  • Coordination of eye movements and positioning of Head / Neck
  • Relay for cochlear and vestibular signals through CN-VIII
  • Regulation of consciousness, visceral functions, sensation through Reticular formation


Clinical significance

  • Medial medullary syndrome: Stroke in pyramidal tract, medial lemniscus, and the hypoglossal nucleus.
  • Lateral medullary syndrome: Blockage of either the posterior inferior cerebellar artery or of the vertebral arteries.
  • Progressive bulbar palsy (PBP) is a disease that attacks the nerves supplying the bulbar muscles.
  • Bulbar palsy