Stellate ganglion
Stellate Ganglion
The Stellate Ganglion (pronounced: stel·late | \ ˈste-ˌlāt \, ganglion | \ ˈgaŋ-glē-ən \) is a collection of nerve cell bodies (sympathetic) found in the neck. It is part of the sympathetic nervous system and plays a crucial role in the body's fight or flight response.
Etymology
The term "Stellate" is derived from the Latin word "stella," meaning star, due to the star-like shape of the ganglion. "Ganglion" is derived from the Greek word "ganglion," meaning a swelling or knot, referring to the mass of nerve cell bodies.
Function
The Stellate Ganglion is responsible for sending nerve signals to the upper body, including the heart, lungs, and upper extremities. It also plays a role in controlling the dilation of the pupils and sweating in the upper body.
Related Terms
- Sympathetic Nervous System: The part of the nervous system that serves to accelerate the heart rate, constrict blood vessels, and raise blood pressure.
- Ganglion: A mass of nerve cell bodies, typically located outside the brain and spinal cord.
- Neuron: A nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system.
- Fight or Flight Response: A physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival.
Clinical Significance
Blockage of the Stellate Ganglion (Stellate Ganglion Block) is a procedure used to diagnose and treat pain in the upper body, particularly complex regional pain syndrome, postherpetic neuralgia, and intractable angina. It is also being studied for its potential use in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stellate ganglion
- Wikipedia's article - Stellate ganglion
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