Dynamic function of macrophages in the subarachnoid space
Okamoto, N.
Nippon Ganka Gakkai Zasshi 84(9): 1113-1122
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-0203 PMID: 7223549 Document Number: 159865
Arachnoid tissues, optochiasmas and subarachnoid spaces [SAS] were examined in the acute stage of experimental allergic optic neuritis in albino rabbits. Mononuclear cells are thought to invade the endothelium of the vessels in the pia or intrachiasmal tissues, and enter the nerve bundles. Macrophages in the subarachnoid space (SAS) were observed directly penetrating the basement membrane and gap junctions of astroglial processes into the subpial spaces, and to digest myelin. The macrophages then discharged the myelin debris into the SAS. Retrobulbar neuritis and demyelination of the peripheral parts of optic nerve tissues apparently occur as the result of optochiasmal arachnoiditis.