Leptomeninges
Leptomeninges
- Related terms: Leptomeninx; Arachnoid mater and pia mater
Definition
The term “leptomeninges” refers collectively to the pia mater and arachnoid mater.
The arachnoid membrane attaches to the outer meningeal layer, the dura mater. Between these two layers lies a potential space called the subdural space. Beneath the arachnoid membrane is the subarachnoid space. Within this space, numerous delicate, web-like strands known as trabeculae extend from the inner surface of the arachnoid membrane, spanning the subarachnoid space and connecting to the pia mater. The pia mater, which is highly vascularized, envelops the entire brain and follows its natural contours, including the sulci and gyri.
References
Seker, A., Martins, C. and Rhoton, A.L. (2010). ‘Chapter 2, Meningeal Anatomy’ in Meningiomas, Editor(s): M. Necmettin Pamir, Peter M. Black, Rudolf Fahlbusch, W.B. Saunders, pp. 11-51. ISBN 9781416056546, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-1-4160-5654-6.00002-7
