Cisterna (Cislerna, Pl. Cisternae)

Cistern is a term used to refer to various cavities or extensions in the body that are of particular importance in the functioning of various systems. In this article we will look at two main meanings of the term "tank".

  1. Cisterns in the brain

In the human brain there are several cisterns, which are relatively large cavities located under the arachnoid membrane of the brain above its external fissures and grooves. They are filled with cerebrospinal fluid, which plays an important role in protecting and nourishing nerve tissue. One of the largest cisterns is the cerebellopontine cisterna (cisterna magna), which is located between the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata. It is of considerable size and serves as a reservoir for cerebrospinal fluid.

Cisterns in the brain are important for the normal functioning of the nervous system. They provide cushioning and protection of the brain from damage, and also participate in the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. Dysfunction of the tanks can lead to various pathologies and diseases associated with the nervous system.

  1. Cistern in the lymphatic system

In the lymphatic system there is also a cistern, which is an extension at the lower end of the thoracic (lymphatic) duct. The right and left lumbar lymphatic trunks flow into this tank. The cistern plays an important role in draining and transporting lymph, which is part of the body's immune system.

The lymphatic system performs a number of important functions, including filtering and purifying tissue fluid, regulating fluid volume in the body, and protecting against infections. The cistern in the lymphatic system is a key component of this system, allowing the collection and return flow of lymph from the lower extremities, pelvis and abdomen.

In conclusion, the term cistern is used to refer to various cavities or extensions in the body that are important for the functioning of various systems. Cisterns in the brain serve as reservoirs for cerebrospinal fluid and play an important role in protecting nervous tissue, while cisterns in the lymphatic system provide drainage and transport of lymph. Understanding the role and functions of the cisterns helps us better understand the complex processes occurring in the body.



Cisterns (lat. cisternae - “bags”) are special cavities in the human body that are filled with liquid and perform important functions. They can be located in various parts of the body, but the most famous are the cisterns of the brain, which play an important role in the conduction of nerve impulses.

Cerebral cisterns are one of the types of cavities located in the brain. They are sac-shaped and filled with cerebrospinal fluid, which acts as a cushion and protects the brain.

There are several cisterns in the brain, but the most famous are the cerebellopontine cisterns. They are located between the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata and are the largest of all cisterns.

In addition to the cisterns of the brain, cisterns can be found in other parts of the body, such as the chest. In this area, the cistern is an extension at the lower end of the lymphatic duct. Two lymphatic trunks flow into this tank, which ensures lymphatic circulation in the body.

Despite the fact that cisterns are important for the functioning of the body, their excess can lead to various diseases. For example, excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain can lead to hydrocephalus, and excess lymph in the chest can cause lymphedema. Therefore, it is important to monitor the condition of the tanks and, if necessary, carry out treatment.



Cisterns are relatively large cavities located between the membranes of the brain - the epidermis and hippocampus. The meninges are made up of several layers, one of which is the hippocampus. The hippocampus is a large sheet of pia mater that is located on the upper surface of the brain. It delimits the cavity inside the brain and the subarachnoid space, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid or cerebrospinal fluid, which is produced by the non-spinal supranuclear center.

The tank takes its position to reduce pressure on the brain when it is tense, as well as to protect its structure and functions from external influences. Most cisternae are connected to each other, with the exception of the hippocampus, where its curvature prevents the membrane from stretching too much. The cisterns are especially important for the functioning of the brain, as they not only limit the pressure of brain tissues, but also protect them from the effects of abnormal metabolic processes, histamine releases, emotional disorders and other factors that can affect their functioning.