Subarachnoid cisterns

Last revised by Mohammadtaghi Niknejad on 2 Jan 2024

The subarachnoid cisterns, or basal cisterns, are compartments within the subarachnoid space where the pia mater and arachnoid membrane are not in close approximation and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) forms pools or cisterns (Latin: "box"). As they are interconnected, their patency is essential for CSF circulation. Cisterns may have vessels and/or cranial nerves passing through them.

The named subarachnoid cisterns are (roughly from superior to inferior):

The cisterns are, in some instances, separated from each other by arachnoid membranes

Related pathology

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.