Chiasm (Noun)
Meaning
An intersection or crossing of two tracts in the form of the letter X.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The optic chiasm is the point in the brain where the optic nerves cross over each other, forming an X shape.
- In the context of neuroanatomy, the chiasm refers to the crossing of nerve fibers or tracts in the brain, often forming a distinctive X pattern.
- The cerebral chiasm is a critical structure in the brain that allows for the integration of sensory information from both sides of the body.
- During embryonic development, the formation of the optic chiasm is a crucial step in the establishment of the visual pathway.
- In the spinal cord, the dorsal column-medial lemniscus pathway forms a chiasm at the level of the medulla oblongata, allowing for the crossing of sensory fibers.