Optic Chiasma

Optic Chiasma: structure and functions

The optic chiasm, also known as the Optic Chiasma, is a characteristic structure on the inferior surface of the brain. This structure is a chiasm of two optic nerves that intersect at a point close to the pituitary gland.

The optic chiasm is shaped like the letter “X” and is formed by the crossing fibers of the optic nerves coming from the medial half of the retina. Fibers coming from the lateral half of the retina go to the optic nerves of the corresponding side without crossing.

As a result of the optic chiasm, visual tracts are formed that pass through the subcortical visual centers and are directed to the cortical vision centers located in the occipital lobes of the cerebral hemispheres. These centers process incoming information, which allows us to perceive and see the world around us.

The visual chiasm plays an important role in the process of vision, as it allows you to combine information received from both eyes. Thanks to the optic chiasm, we can see a three-dimensional image and orient ourselves in space. In addition, the visual chiasm is also responsible for functions such as color and shape recognition, as well as spatial orientation.

Although the optic chiasm is an important structure, it can also become the site of occurrence of certain diseases. For example, a tumor of the pituitary gland can put pressure on the optic chiasm, which can lead to visual disturbances. There are also other possible diseases associated with dysfunction of the optic chiasm, which can lead to visual impairment or even complete blindness.

In conclusion, the optic chiasm is an important structure that plays a key role in the process of vision. This characteristic structure allows information received from both eyes to be combined and processed in the corresponding vision centers of the brain. Despite its importance, the optic chiasm can also be the site of certain diseases that can lead to vision impairment.

Optic Chiasma - An X-shaped structure formed by two crossing optic nerves that run towards the brain. The chiasm is located on the lower surface of the brain near the pituitary gland. Only the fibers coming from the medial half of the retina intersect. In the optic tracts formed as a result of the chiasm, fibers pass that carry impulses from the photoreceptor cells of the medial half of the retina of the opposite eye and the lateral half of the retina on their side. Impulses, switching in the subcortical visual centers, are sent to the cortical vision centers located in the cortex of the occipital lobes of the cerebral hemispheres.

What is a visual chiasm? There are elements in the nervous system that serve to form multiple connections between structural elements. One of them is the crossed optic tract (synonyms: x-shaped optic fascicle, indirect optic tract, dendroaxonal filament