Difference Between Brain and Spinal Cord Meninges
The difference between brain and spinal cord meninges are as follows:
| Feature | Brain Meninges | Spinal Cord Meninges |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Surrounds the brain within the cranial cavity. | Surrounds the spinal cord within the vertebral canal. |
| Layers | Consists of three layers: | Also consists of three layers: |
| 1. Dura mater: Outermost and tough layer. | 1. Dura mater: Outermost and tough layer. | |
| 2. Arachnoid mater: Middle layer with a web-like structure. | 2. Arachnoid mater: Middle layer that lacks web-like structure. | |
| 3. Pia mater: Innermost layer attached to the surface of the brain. | 3. Pia mater: Innermost layer attached to the surface of the spinal cord. | |
| Function | Provides protection and support to the brain. | Provides protection and support to the spinal cord. |
| Subarachnoid Space | Contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which cushions the brain. | Also contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for spinal cord cushioning. |
| Blood Supply | Rich blood supply, and blood vessels are present in the meninges. | Blood supply is less extensive compared to the brain. |
| Potential Spaces | Potential for epidural and subdural spaces between dura mater and surrounding structures. | Potential for epidural space between dura mater and vertebral canal. |
| Attachment to Skull/Vertebrae | Dura mater is attached to the inner surface of the skull. | Dura mater is attached to the vertebral column |
Difference Between Brain and Spinal Cord Meninges
Meninges are the protective membranes surrounding and enclosing the brain and spinal cord. There are three layers of meninges: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. The main difference between brain and spinal cord meninges lies in the characteristic features of the dura mater. The brain’s dura mater has two layers: the periosteal and the meningeal layer. The spinal cord’s dura mater only has one layer, the meningeal layer. Brain and spinal cord meninges protect and support the central nervous system by containing cerebrospinal fluid and shielding against infections and injuries.
Table of Content
- Difference Between Brain and Spinal Cord Meninges
- Brain Meninges
- Spinal Cord Meninges
- Similarities Between Brain and Spinal Cord Meninges
- Conclusion – Difference between Brain and Spinal Cord Meninges