Arachnoid

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Arachnoid

Arachnoid (/əˈræknɔɪd/; from Greek arachne, meaning 'spider', and -oid, meaning 'like') is one of the three layers of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It is located between the other two meninges, the pia mater and the dura mater.

Etymology

The term "arachnoid" comes from the Greek words arachne meaning 'spider', and -oid meaning 'like'. This is due to the web-like appearance of the arachnoid mater.

Function

The arachnoid mater provides a cushioning effect for the central nervous system (CNS). The space between the arachnoid and the pia mater, known as the subarachnoid space, is filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which serves to provide a protective buffer for the brain and spinal cord.

Related Terms

  • Meninges: The three-layered protective covering of the brain and spinal cord, consisting of the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.
  • Subarachnoid space: The space between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater, filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): The fluid that fills the subarachnoid space, providing a protective buffer for the brain and spinal cord.
  • Pia mater: The innermost layer of the meninges, lying directly on the brain and spinal cord.
  • Dura mater: The outermost layer of the meninges, lying closest to the skull.

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