Learn All There Is To Know About The Meninges
The meninges are a fundamental part of our central nervous system. They are a set of membranes that enclose both the spinal cord and the brain. Their main function is to protect them from certain attacks.
The word “meninge”, which is the meninges in English, comes from the Greek word “meninx”, which means membrane. The central nervous system is one of the body parts that needs the most protection since the body can perform all its functions, such as breathing, thanks to it.
The meninges include the tendon (dura mater), the arachnoid (arachnoid) and the soft pia (pia mater). In this article, we want to explain how they are distributed, as well as their main features and functions. We will also talk about meningitis and why it is such a dangerous condition.
What are the meninges?
As we mentioned above, the central nervous system requires different mechanisms to protect us. First, it is protected by bony structures, such as the skull and spine.
In addition , it consists of a number of membranes that above all protect it from chemical attacks or infections: the meninges. They are three membranes or layers that are separated from each other by spaces that also contain important structures.
If you start from the outer part, in contact with the skull, you will find the tendon. It is attached to the bone and emits a kind of septum that divides the brain cavity into parts. In this way, it holds the different parts of the brain in place. It also contains venous sinuses.
The cobweb is the next meningeal, located in between the other two. It got its name from the fact that it looks like a spider web. This is the most delicate and fragile layer. Within this layer is the subarachnoid space, which contains the cerebrospinal fluid.
The soft meninges are the innermost of the meninges, as they are in contact with the brain and spinal cord. It covers the brain and is introduced through the furrows and folds, as if it were a thin sheet covering the brain.
The spaces between the meninges
We have already mentioned the subarachnoid space, which is the space between the cobweb and the soft meninges. The cerebrospinal fluid fills this space. This fluid protects the central nervous system, dampens shocks and pressure changes inside the skull.
Between the tendon and the cobweb we find the subdural space. On the tendon we find the famous epidural space. This room is known because certain anesthetic drugs are injected into it, for example during pregnancy. This space is present in the spinal cord, but not in the brain.
The functions of the meninges
As we all know, the main function of the meninges is to protect the nervous system from injuries such as trauma. In other words, they are responsible for curbing the blows it may receive. However, they also act as a filter for chemical attacks.
In addition, the meninges allow cerebrospinal fluid to circulate through the system. In addition to physical protection, this fluid helps eliminate waste produced in the brain. In addition, it balances intracranial pressure.
Therefore, the meninges form a support and protection system. On the other hand, they inform the brain about certain changes in pressure, tension or pain that an injury can cause.
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is a pathology characterized by acute inflammation of the meninges. Although most cases are due to a viral infection, it can also be due to bacteria or fungi. It can even be caused by carcinogenic processes or other causes.
The problem with meningitis is that in many cases this inflammation can cause brain damage. In fact, it is common for it to have permanent effects such as deafness or changes in other senses. It can even be fatal.
What you need to remember is that the meninges are basic protective structures in the central nervous system. It is therefore very important for them to stay healthy as an injury can affect the integrity of this system.
