Neuropathology

Question 1

Neuronal storage disease

Answer 1

Carbohydrates fill up somas of neurons

Question 2

2 roles of glia / astrocytes

Answer 2

1) Acts like “glue” / connective tissue.
2) Astrocyte sends axons to capillary, called footplates. Influence metabolism of endothelial cells in capillaries and helps keep BBB intact.

Question 3

How do microglia aid damaged neurons?

Answer 3

Microglia rescue damaged neurons by providing metabolism for neurons while they repair themselves.

Question 4

Gross hallmarks of meningitis

Answer 4

Purulent exudate in subarachnoid space and injection (filling up of vessels w/ blood)

Question 5

3 main types of brain herniation

Answer 5

• Cingulate – Cingulate gyrus is herniated below the falx cerebri. Can’t see corpus callosum b/w hemispheres.
• Uncal – most severe. Medial part of hippocampus or brainstem (Duret hemorrhage) is subject to damage due to pressing up against sharp tentorium cerebri. May compromise cardiopulmonary function.
• Tonsillar – usually caused by mass lesion of posterior fossa → cerebellar damage.