Ganglion (Gr. Ganglion - Node)

A ganglion (from the Greek “ganglion” - node) is a nodular mass of nerve cell bodies that is located outside the central nervous system. Ganglia are present in both humans and animals and perform important functions in the functioning of the nervous system.

Ganglia can be divided into two main categories: sensory (also known as dorsal) and autonomic (also known as visceral). Sensory ganglia contain nerve cells that receive information from receptors in various tissues and organs such as skin, muscles and internal organs. Autonomic ganglia control automatic body functions such as heartbeat, breathing, and digestion.

In the human body, the most famous ganglia are the spinal and sympathetic ganglia. The dorsal ganglia lie along the spinal cord and contain nerve cells that receive information from receptors in the skin, muscles and joints. The sympathetic ganglia are located along the spinal column and control automatic body functions such as regulating heart rate and blood pressure.

Some diseases can damage the ganglia. For example, diabetic neuropathy can damage the autonomic ganglia, which can lead to problems with digestion, urination, and sexual function. Injury and infection can also damage the ganglia.

In general, ganglia are important elements of the nervous system that are involved in transmitting and processing information. Understanding their functions and roles in the body helps improve the diagnosis and treatment of nervous diseases.