Arachnoid granulation

Definition

Arachnoid granulations are small protrusions of the arachnoid mater (one of the three meninges that cover the brain and spinal cord) into the dural venous sinuses, which allow for the transfer of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the subarachnoid space back into the blood circulation. They play a crucial role in maintaining proper CSF pressure and volume within the central nervous system.

Related terms

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF): A clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord, it acts as a cushion for the brain's cortex, providing basic mechanical and immunological protection to the brain inside the skull.

Dural Venous Sinuses:

These are venous channels found between layers of dura mater in the brain, which drain blood from internal and external veins of the brain and receive cerebrospinal fluid from arachnoid granulations.

Subarachnoid Space:

The interval between the arachnoid membrane and pia mater surrounding the brain and spinal cord, filled with cerebrospinal fluid and serving as a buffer against trauma