Anterolateral Pathways Quiz

Study Notes

The anterolateral pathways include the spinothalamic pathway and the spinocerebellar tract.
First order neurons from dorsal root sensory fibers synapse with second order neurons in the dorsal horns of the spinal cord.
Afferent fibers from peripheral nerves enter the spinal cord via the dorsal root and ascend/descend two spinal segments in the tract of Lissauer prior to synapsing in the dorsal horn gray matter.
The tract of Lissauer is a small strand capping the posterior horn close to the entrance of the posterior nerve roots and is present throughout the spinal cord.
It is most developed in the upper cervical regions and is involved in neurological deficits seen in pernicious anemia.
During a complete occlusion of the anterior artery of the spinal cord, the tract of Lissauer is the only tract spared along with the dorsal columns.
The spinothalamic pathway is involved in transmitting pain and temperature information.
The spinocerebellar tract is involved in transmitting proprioceptive information.
Other tracts within the anterolateral pathways include the fasciculus cuneatus, fasciculus gracilis, and substantia gelatinosa.
These pathways are important for sensory perception and motor function.