GYRUS POSTCENTRALIS Meaning and
Definition
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The gyrus postcentralis is a prominent structure located in the parietal lobe of the brain, specifically in the posterior part of the cerebral cortex. It is also commonly referred to as the postcentral gyrus or the primary somatosensory cortex.
This region of the brain plays a vital role in processing sensory information from the body, particularly touch, proprioception (awareness of body position in space), and the perception of pain and temperature. The gyrus postcentralis receives inputs from sensory neurons located throughout the body, which transmit signals to this region for further processing.
The structure of the gyrus postcentralis is characterized by a series of ridges and grooves that are distinctively arranged. These ridges, called gyri, and the grooves in between, known as sulci, contribute to the typical folded appearance of the cerebral cortex, increasing the overall surface area and providing more space for higher-order processing.
The gyrus postcentralis is considered a primary cortical area as it is directly involved in the initial processing of sensory information. From here, signals are relayed to other areas of the brain for further interpretation and integration. Its precise mapping of the different body parts is known as the sensory homunculus, in which different regions of the gyrus correspond to different body parts, with larger areas representing parts that are more sensitive or require greater sensory processing.
Overall, the gyrus postcentralis is a crucial component of the brain's sensory processing system, forming a key link between the body and the conscious perception of touch, proprioception, and pain.
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Posterior central or ascending parietal convolution, g. centralis posterior.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GYRUS POSTCENTRALIS
- gyrus po stcentralis
- gyrus pos tcentralis
- gyrus post centralis
- gyrus postc entralis
- gyrus postce ntralis
- gyrus postcen tralis
- gyrus postcent ralis
- gyrus postcentr alis
- gyrus postcentra lis
- gyrus postcentral is
- gyrus postcentrali s
Etymology of GYRUS POSTCENTRALIS
The word "gyrus postcentralis" consists of two parts: "gyrus" and "postcentralis".1. Gyrus: The term "gyrus" comes from the Latin word "gyros", which means "circle" or "ring". It is used to describe the convoluted folds or ridges found on the surface of the brain. The term was first used in anatomy to refer to these circular or curved structures.2. Postcentralis: The word "postcentralis" is derived from two Latin components - "post" and "centralis". - "Post" means "after" or "behind" in Latin. In the context of brain anatomy, it suggests the location of a structure toward the back or posterior part of the brain.
- "Centralis" is related to the Latin word "centrum", which means "center". It indicates a central or pivotal location.
