Diencephalon: Thalamus and Hypothalamus
Definition The diencephalon is the posterior part of the forebrain, which consists of thalamus, hypothalamus, epithalamus, and subthalamus.
Parts of Diencephalon
- Thalamus
- Hypothalamus
- Epithalamus
- Subthalamus
Thalamus
- Location: Located above the midbrain and below the cerebral cortex.
- Functions: Relays sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex, regulates consciousness, sleep, and alertness.
- Nuclei:
- Lateral geniculate nucleus
- Medial geniculate nucleus
- Ventral lateral nucleus
- Ventral anterior nucleus
- Pulvinar nucleus
- Reticular nucleus
Hypothalamus
- Location: Located below the thalamus and above the brainstem.
- Functions: Regulates body temperature, hunger, thirst, and emotions.
- Nuclei:
- Supraoptic nucleus
- Paraventricular nucleus
- Dorsomedial nucleus
- Ventromedial nucleus
- Lateral nucleus
- Perifornical nucleus
Clinical Significance
- Thalamic Damage: Lead to sensory deficits, motor impairments, and altered consciousness.
- Hypothalamic Damage: Lead to hormonal imbalances, weight changes, and emotional disturbances.
- Thalamic Tumors: Can cause sensory and motor deficits, seizures, and altered consciousness.
- Hypothalamic Tumors: Can cause hormonal imbalances, weight changes, and emotional disturbances.