Dura mater

Definition

Dura mater is the tough, outermost membrane that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It is part of the meninges, which are three layers of connective tissue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The dura mater is composed of two layers: the periosteal layer and the meningeal layer.
2. It contains blood vessels and dural sinuses that help drain blood from the brain.
3. The dura mater is attached to the inner surface of the skull and to the vertebrae in the spinal column.
4. In certain places, it forms structures like the falx cerebri and tentorium cerebelli that support other parts of the brain.
5. Inflammation or infection of this membrane is referred to as meningitis.

Review Questions

Related terms

arachnoid mater:

The middle layer of meninges located between dura mater and pia mater.

pia mater:

The innermost layer of meninges that directly covers and adheres to the surface of the brain and spinal cord.

meningitis: An inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by an infection.