Prior to an individual being aware of pain, the painful input to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord must travel to the brain. Which of the following scenarios is most accurate in describing the path to the brain?
A)The axons of most of the transmission cells cross over and ascend via the spinothalamic tract.
B)The axons of most of the transmission cells ascend ipsilaterally via the spinothalamic tract.
C)The axons of most of the transmission cells cross over and descend via the lateral spinothalamic tract.
D)The axons of all of the transmission cells descend over the spinothalamic tract to the brain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The axons of most transmission cells involved in pain sensation cross over to the opposite side (decussate) at or near the level of entry into the spinal cord and then ascend to the brain via the spinothalamic tract. This pathway is crucial for the transmission of pain and temperature sensations to the brain.

Prior to an Individual Being Aware of Pain, the Painful