To clarify the functional anatomy of the nuclei and complex pathways of the brainstem and to understand why a certain pathology in a certain location gives a specific neurological deficit. To learn about more advanced MR techniques as DTI (Diffusion tensor imaging)

The brainstem contains numerous pathways and nucleii, all organised in a small area. Also the presenting neurological features can be challenging to localise. Knowledge of the anatomy of different tracts, nucleii and vascularisation as well as recognising specific diseases, is mandatory in order to assess these complex cases.

Anatomy/ Embryology Every cell in the human body originated from either endoderm, ectoderm or mesoderm. These are primitive germ cell layers, which become established by the second week of human embryonic development. By the third week two paralel folds begin to develop in the outer ectoderm, with a neural groove between them. Eventually this will form a neural tube halfway the fourth week. From the fourth to the eighth week different brain vesicles develop, each giving rise to different parts of the central nervous system....

We reviewed the most important tracts and nuclei of the brainstem and what deficit we can expect from a lesion in a certain location. in summary:

- "Langman's Medical embryology" T.W. Sadler - "Neuroanatomy, an illustrated colour text" A.R. Crossman and D. Neary - "Neuroanatomy An Atlas of Structures, Sections and Systems" Duane and Haines. http://library.med.utah.edu/neurologicexam/html/introduction.html “The brainstem, anatomy, Assesment and Clinical syndromes” Hurley, Hayman et al. 2010, Journal of Neuropsychiatry and clinical Neuroscience “Magnetic resonance techniques for the brainstem.” Alvarez-Linera, 2010, Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI. “Anatomy of the brainstem: A gaze into the stem of life|” Angeles Fernandez-Gil, Palacios-Bote et al, 2010, Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI.“Clinical...