Organ
Cerebrum
Cerebral hemispheres and their connected internal structures
High-yield
Frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital lobes are visible externally; the insula is covered by neighboring cortex. Many motor and sensory pathways represent the opposite side of the body, but cerebral functions are not all exclusively one-sided.
Overview
The cerebrum contains two hemispheres with an outer gray-matter cortex, underlying white-matter pathways and deep gray nuclei. Gyri and sulci fold its surface. The corpus callosum is a major connection across the longitudinal fissure between the hemispheres.
Reference facts
- Location
- Fills most of the supratentorial cranial cavity
- Parts
- Right and left hemispheres, their lobes and insulae, white matter and deep gray nuclei including the basal nuclei
- Blood supply
- Anterior and middle cerebral arteries usually arise from the internal carotid system; posterior cerebral arteries usually arise at the basilar termination
- Relations
- The falx lies within the longitudinal fissure; the tentorium separates the posterior cerebrum from the cerebellum
- Function
- Supports voluntary action, conscious perception, language, memory, emotion and executive functions through interacting networks
Clinical correlation
Language is left-dominant in most people, while right-hemisphere networks are especially important for spatial attention. Injury can therefore produce different patterns of aphasia or neglect, depending on the network and individual organization.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the cerebrum located?
The cerebrum lies fills most of the supratentorial cranial cavity.
What does the cerebrum do?
Supports voluntary action, conscious perception, language, memory, emotion and executive functions through interacting networks.
What are the parts of the cerebrum?
The parts of the cerebrum are the right and left hemispheres, their lobes and insulae, white matter and deep gray nuclei including the basal nuclei.
What is the blood supply of the cerebrum?
Anterior and middle cerebral arteries usually arise from the internal carotid system; posterior cerebral arteries usually arise at the basilar termination.