hjernehinnevevet

Hjernehinnevevet, also known as meninges, refers to the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. These three layers are the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater.

The dura mater is the outermost and toughest layer, composed of dense fibrous connective tissue. It forms a protective sac around the central nervous system. Beneath the dura mater lies the arachnoid mater, a delicate, web-like membrane. The space between the arachnoid mater and the dura mater is called the subdural space.

The innermost layer is the pia mater, a thin and highly vascular membrane that tightly adheres to the surface of the brain and spinal cord, following its contours. Between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater is the subarachnoid space, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This fluid acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the central nervous system from physical trauma and also playing a role in nutrient and waste transport.

The meninges provide crucial protection against mechanical injury and infection for the brain and spinal cord. Inflammation of the meninges is known as meningitis, a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.