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Multiple Choice
Which of the following structures is directly associated with the sympathetic trunk?
A
Cerebral cortex
B
Dorsal root ganglia
C
Adrenal cortex
D
Paravertebral ganglia
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the sympathetic trunk: The sympathetic trunk is a part of the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic division. It consists of a chain of ganglia located on either side of the vertebral column.
Identify the role of paravertebral ganglia: Paravertebral ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies that are directly associated with the sympathetic trunk. They are responsible for relaying signals from the central nervous system to various target organs in the body.
Eliminate unrelated structures: The cerebral cortex is part of the brain and is involved in higher-order functions like thought and memory, not directly related to the sympathetic trunk. The dorsal root ganglia are sensory ganglia associated with spinal nerves, not the autonomic system. The adrenal cortex is part of the endocrine system and produces hormones, but it is not directly connected to the sympathetic trunk.
Focus on the correct structure: Paravertebral ganglia are anatomically and functionally linked to the sympathetic trunk, forming the sympathetic chain that runs parallel to the vertebral column.
Conclude the association: Based on anatomical and physiological knowledge, the paravertebral ganglia are the correct answer as they are directly associated with the sympathetic trunk.