Arachnoid membrane
Arachnoid Membrane
The Arachnoid Membrane (pronounced: /əˈrakˌnoid ˈmemˌbrān/) is one of the three meninges, the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. The name "arachnoid" comes from the Greek "arachne," meaning spider, and "eidos," meaning like, due to the membrane's spider web-like appearance.
Etymology
The term "Arachnoid Membrane" is derived from the Greek words "Arachne" (ἀράχνη), meaning spider, and "Eidos" (εἶδος), meaning form or likeness. This is due to the membrane's resemblance to a spider's web.
Structure
The Arachnoid Membrane is a thin, transparent layer that lies between the dura mater and the pia mater. It is separated from the pia mater by the subarachnoid space, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
Function
The primary function of the Arachnoid Membrane is to protect the brain and spinal cord from injury. It does this by providing a cushioning effect, thanks to the cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space.
Related Terms
- Meninges: The three membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, consisting of the dura mater, arachnoid membrane, and pia mater.
- Dura Mater: The outermost of the three meninges.
- Pia Mater: The innermost of the three meninges.
- Subarachnoid Space: The space between the arachnoid membrane and the pia mater, filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid: The fluid found in the brain and spinal cord, providing a cushioning effect.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Arachnoid membrane
- Wikipedia's article - Arachnoid membrane
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