PULVINAR Meaning and
Definition
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The term "pulvinar" refers to a structure found within the anatomy of the brain. Specifically, it denotes a large nucleus located in the thalamus, which is a region responsible for relaying sensory information to different parts of the cerebral cortex. The pulvinar is situated at the posterior part of the thalamus, and it is recognized for its distinctive shape resembling a cushion or pillow.
Functionally, the pulvinar plays a crucial role in multisensory integration and attentional processing. As a part of the thalamus, it acts as a relay station for sensory signals received from several sensory modalities, including visual, auditory, and somatosensory inputs. These signals converge in the pulvinar, where they are integrated and processed before being relayed to the appropriate areas of the cerebral cortex.
Notably, the pulvinar is heavily interconnected with various cortical regions, particularly those involved in higher-order processing, such as the parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes. This connectivity allows the pulvinar to facilitate the coordination of sensory information and contribute to processes such as selective attention and the integration of visual and auditory stimuli.
Furthermore, abnormalities or damage to the pulvinar have been associated with deficits in attention, visual spatial processing, and various neurodevelopmental disorders. Researchers continue to study the specific functions of the pulvinar and its role in cognitive processes to gain a deeper understanding of its contributions to overall brain function.
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The posterior extremity of the thalamus which forms a cushion-like prominence overhanging the brachia of the corpora quadrigemina.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PULVINAR
- oulvinar
- lulvinar
- -ulvinar
- 0ulvinar
- pylvinar
- phlvinar
- pjlvinar
- pilvinar
- p8lvinar
- p7lvinar
- pukvinar
- pupvinar
- puovinar
- pulcinar
- pulbinar
- pulginar
- pulfinar
- pulvunar
- pulvjnar
- pulvknar
Etymology of PULVINAR
The word "pulvinar" is derived from Latin. It comes from the Latin noun "pulvinus", which means cushion or pillow. In ancient Rome, a "pulvinar" referred to a cushioned couch or a platform covered with cushions, typically used for seating important individuals such as gods, emperors, or high-ranking officials during public events or ceremonies. Over time, the term "pulvinar" has been adopted in various fields, including anatomy, neuroscience, and architecture, referring to different structures or features associated with the original sense of cushion or pillow.
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