The lateral vestibulospinal tract, important for antigravity extensor tone during standing, arises from which nucleus and descends to which extent?
- A Lateral vestibular (Deiters') nucleus, entire length of the cord ✓
- B Medial vestibular nucleus, cervical cord only
- C Superior vestibular nucleus, brainstem only
- D Inferior vestibular nucleus, cervical and upper thoracic cord
Correct answer: A. Lateral vestibular (Deiters') nucleus, entire length of the cord
Explanation
The lateral vestibular nucleus of Deiters gives rise to the lateral vestibulospinal tract, which descends uncrossed through the entire spinal cord in the anterior funiculus and powerfully facilitates extensor (antigravity) motoneurons to maintain posture against gravity. In contrast, the medial vestibular nucleus projects via the descending component of the medial longitudinal fasciculus, limited largely to the cervical cord, controlling neck and head position.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
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