EdingerWestphalnukleusen
The Edinger–Westphal nucleus is a midbrain structure that contains the parasympathetic preganglionic neurons of the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III). It is located in the rostral midbrain, near the aqueduct and adjacent to the oculomotor nucleus. Historically described as a single nucleus, contemporary anatomy often distinguishes a preganglionic parasympathetic population, EWpg, responsible for pupillary and lens functions, from a nearby population, EWcp, that has non-ocular roles.
The primary function of the Edinger–Westphal nucleus is to provide preganglionic parasympathetic innervation to the ciliary
Clinical relevance includes impaired pupillary constriction and accommodation following damage to the nucleus or its connections,
The Edinger–Westphal nucleus is named after Ludolf Edinger and Karl Westphal, who described midbrain parasympathetic components