subaraknoid

Subarachnoid refers to the space between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater, two of the three meninges that surround the brain and spinal cord. This space is filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which acts as a cushion for the central nervous system. The subarachnoid space contains blood vessels that supply the brain and spinal cord, as well as trabeculae, which are fine collagenous strands that anchor the arachnoid mater to the pia mater.

The cerebrospinal fluid within the subarachnoid space is produced by the choroid plexus within the ventricles of the brain and circulates throughout the central nervous system. This fluid plays a crucial role in protecting the brain from physical trauma, removing waste products, and maintaining a stable environment for neuronal function.

A significant clinical condition related to this space is subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This occurs when bleeding happens in the subarachnoid space, often due to the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation. SAH is a medical emergency that can lead to severe headaches, neurological deficits, and can be life-threatening. Inflammation of the meninges, known as meningitis, can also affect the subarachnoid space, causing symptoms like fever, stiff neck, and confusion. Understanding the anatomy and function of the subarachnoid space is vital for diagnosing and managing these critical neurological conditions.