midbrain
Nervous systemHeadFMA61993
Nomenclature
midbrain
mesencephalon (Latin)
mesencefalo (Italian)
Descriptionentry
The most cranial portion of the brainstem, between the pons and the diencephalon.
Functionentry
Conduit for motor and sensory pathways; contains the nuclei of the third and fourth cranial nerves and the colliculi.
Blood supplyentry
Posterior cerebral arteries and basilar artery.
Clinical notes
Transtentorial herniation compresses it, causing pupillary and consciousness changes.
Part of
Related structures
Model