MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

NEUROLOGY

CEREBELLAR SYNDROME

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
Which of these subcortical structures is not structurally attached to the basal ganglia but is important for its functioning
A
amygdala
B
putamen
C
substantia nigra
D
thalamus
E
sub-thalamic nuclei
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -The subthalamic nucleus is not an anatomical part of the basal ganglia. However, given their functional connection, the subthalamus is listed as a functional part of the basal ganglia.

Detailed explanation-2: -The term basal ganglia in the strictest sense refers to nuclei embedded deep in the brain hemispheres (striatum or caudate-putamen and globus pallidus), whereas related nuclei consist of structures located in the diencephalon (subthalamic nucleus), mesencephalon (substantia nigra), and pons (pedunculopontine nucleus).

Detailed explanation-3: -d. Cerebellum is the major subcortical structure along with the basal ganglia. The main role of the cerebellum is to maintain balance by making postural adjustments. Hence, this is an incorrect option.

Detailed explanation-4: -Inhibition of muscle tone is not regulated by basal nuclei. Instead, it is controlled by a part of the brain known as the cerebellum.

There is 1 question to complete.