“Ganglia” is the plural of the word “ganglion.”
Ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies found throughout the body.
This article discusses the anatomy and function of ganglia, as well as their associated conditions and treatments.
Anatomy
Ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies.
Anerverefers to a bundle of axons, whereas aganglionrefers to a cluster of neuronal cell bodies.
The other is connected to the CNS via the brain orspinal cord.
Motor ganglialocations include:
Motor ganglia are part of theautonomic nervous system (ANS).
The ANS controls involuntary movements and functions, like your breathing.
What Are Basal Ganglia?
The basal ganglia are located in the brain stem, thalamus, and cerebral cortex areas of the brain.
This group of structures is important in regulating voluntary movements.
Ganglia play an essential role in connecting the parts of the peripheral and central nervous systems.
Symptoms depend largely on which types of ganglia are affected.
Conditions that affect the PNS can also impact the ganglia.
Treatment
Treatment may vary depending on the cause of ganglia damage.
It also depends on which ganglia have been damaged.
Some causes of basal ganglia damage, for instance, are reversible and respond well to rehabilitation.
Treatments are also available for heavy metal poisoning.
Depending on the individual, there may not be any lingering symptoms after treatment.
Currently, theres no cure for this disease.
Degenerative diseases that affect ganglia in the PNS may not be treatable.
People with severe head trauma that impacts the basal ganglia may not recover.
If they do, they may end up with a permanent disability.
Summary
Ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies located in the PNS.
The basal ganglia, which is located in the CNS, is one exception.
These structures may be susceptible to damage resulting from injury, infection, and more.
Symptoms and treatments may vary depending on the cause of ganglia damage.
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