This article explains the anatomy and function of the medulla oblongata and conditions that can affect it.
It contains both white and gray matter.
What Is White and Gray Matter?
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White matter makes up the deeper brain tissue.
Gray matter is the tissue on the surface of the brain.
It contains neuron cell bodies, which give it its gray color.
The brainstemincluding the midbrain, pons, and medullahouses the starting points of 10 of the 12cranial nerves.
However, many problems with this area occur due to physical injury.
In addition, they may happen due to drug overdoses or strokes.
Without the function of the brainstem, survival is not possible.
In addition to injury, several specific conditions can affect the medulla oblongata.
This condition results from a lack of blood flow through parts of the medulla.
It can cause paralysis in the legs, arm, face, and tongue.
It results in almost completequadriplegia(paralysis of all four limbs).
Facial nerves and respiratory function are often not affected by this syndrome.
Evaluating the Medulla Oblongata
Detecting damage to the medulla and other brainstem parts can be difficult.
Thats because people who have brain injuries may not be able to fully participate in an examination.
Ten of the 12 cranial nerves begin in the brainstem.
Of those, four begin in the medulla oblongata.
Injuries and strokes most commonly cause problems with the medulla oblongata.
Tests to determine damage in the brainstem may include scans and functional tests.
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