Topics

Topic

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Pulvinar

The pulvinar is the largest and most posterior nucleus of the thalamus, playing a critical role in sensory processing, visual attention, and integration of information between cortical and subcortical regions. It acts as a relay center, connecting the visual, auditory, and association cortices, and is essential for modulating sensory perception and attention. Anatomically, the pulvinar is wedge-shaped, located posteriorly in the thalamus, and is visible on neuroimaging studies as a distinct structure with characteristic radiological appearances.

Synonyms

  • Posterior thalamic nucleus

  • Pulvinar thalami

Function

  • Integration and relay of sensory signals, particularly visual information

  • Modulation of visual attention and spatial awareness

  • Involvement in higher cognitive functions such as language processing

  • Coordination of sensory input from various cortical areas

Arterial Supply

  • Primarily supplied by the thalamogeniculate arteries, which are branches of the posterior cerebral artery (PCA), specifically from the P2 segment

  • Occasionally receives minor contributions from the posterior choroidal arteries

Venous Drainage

  • Venous blood drains mainly via the thalamostriate vein and the internal cerebral vein

  • Drains ultimately into the great cerebral vein of Galen

MRI Appearance

  • T1-weighted: Pulvinar appears isointense to the surrounding thalamus; boundaries are not sharply demarcated

  • T2-weighted: Slightly hyperintense or isointense compared to the rest of the thalamus; best appreciated when adjacent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) provides contrast

  • FLAIR: Pulvinar is isointense to the thalamus; may show signal abnormalities in pathologic conditions (e.g., Fabry disease, CLN2 Batten disease)

  • Post-contrast T1: Normally no enhancement; abnormal enhancement may be seen in cases of inflammation, infection, or neoplasms

CT Appearance

  • Pulvinar appears as a soft tissue density, isodense to the rest of the thalamus and adjacent brain structures

  • Not well distinguished from other thalamic nuclei on non-contrast CT

  • May be better appreciated in cases of pathology (e.g., hemorrhage, calcification)

MRI images

Pulvinar mri 3t axial image

MRI images

Pulvinar mri 3t coronal image