Anatomy, Central Nervous System

The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system. The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system consists of everything else. The CNS's responsibilities include receiving, processing, and responding to sensory information (see Image. Peripheral and Central Nervous Systems).

The brain is an organ of nervous tissue responsible for responses, sensation, movement, emotions, communication, thought processing, and memory. The skull, meninges, and cerebrospinal fluids protect the human brain. The nervous tissue is extremely delicate and can be damaged by the smallest amount of force. In addition, the brain has a blood-brain barrier that prevents the brain from any harmful substance floating in the blood.

The spinal cord is a vital aspect of the CNS found within the vertebral column. Its purpose is to send motor commands from the brain to the peripheral body and relay sensory information from the sensory organs to the brain. Bone, meninges, and cerebrospinal fluids provide spinal cord protection.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure: Lauren Thau declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Vamsi Reddy declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Paramvir Singh declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Sections

• Introduction
• Structure and Function
• Embryology
• Blood Supply and Lymphatics
• Surgical Considerations
• Clinical Significance
• Review Questions
• References

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