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Pediatric Radiology
Published in: Pediatric Radiology 3/2009

01-03-2009 | Theoretical Considerations

Anatomy and development of the meninges: implications for subdural collections and CSF circulation

Authors: Julie Mack, Waney Squier, James T. Eastman

Published in: Pediatric Radiology | Issue 3/2009

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Abstract

The dura is traditionally viewed as a supportive fibrous covering of the brain containing the dural venous sinuses but otherwise devoid of vessels and lacking any specific function. However, review of the embryology and anatomy reveals the dura to be a complex, vascularized and innervated structure, not a simple fibrous covering. The dura contains an inner vascular plexus that is larger in the infant than in the adult, and this plexus likely plays a role in CSF absorption. This role could be particularly important in the infant whose arachnoid granulations are not completely developed. Although subdural hemorrhage is frequently traumatic, there are nontraumatic conditions associated with subdural hemorrhage, and the inner dural plexus is a likely source of bleeding in these nontraumatic circumstances. This review outlines the development and age-specific vascularity of the dura and offers an alternative perspective on the role of the dura in homeostasis of the central nervous system.
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Metadata
Title
Anatomy and development of the meninges: implications for subdural collections and CSF circulation
Authors
Julie Mack
Waney Squier
James T. Eastman
Publication date
01-03-2009
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Pediatric Radiology / Issue 3/2009
Print ISSN: 0301-0449
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1998
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-008-1084-6

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