Medulla oblongata

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