Atlas (C1) vs Brain
| Property | Atlas (C1) | Brain |
|---|---|---|
| Latin Name | Atlas | Encephalon |
| Type | Bone | Organ |
| Body System | Skeletal | Nervous |
| Body Region | Spine | Brain |
| Function | The first cervical vertebra that supports the skull. Allows nodding movements (flexion and extension) of the head at the atlanto-occipital joint. | The command center of the nervous system, responsible for processing sensory information, controlling motor functions, regulating homeostasis, and generating consciousness, thought, memory, emotion, and language. |
| Clinical Significance | Jefferson fractures (burst fractures of the atlas) result from axial loading. Atlanto-occipital dislocation is usually fatal. Congenital anomalies include atlas assimilation (occipitalization). | Stroke (cerebrovascular accident) is a leading cause of disability. Traumatic brain injury ranges from concussion to severe diffuse axonal injury. Neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. |
| FMA ID | 12519 | 50801 |
Full structure pages
Atlas (C1)
Atlas
Ring-shaped and unusual in lacking both a vertebral body and a spinous process, the atlas is the first cervical vertebra and supports the skull. Its structure consists of anterior and posterior arches joined by two …