Pia Mater

The pia mater is one of three membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. This system of membranes is responsible for protecting the central nervous system and does so by containing the cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions the spine. The innermost of the three membranes, the pia mater, closely envelops the entire surface of the brain. It is responsible for supplying blood to the superficial areas of the cortex and other large blood vessels located along the outer surface of the brain. The pia mater also follows along the natural curves of the spinal cord.

Potential Issues

One of the biggest potential risks associated with the pia mater is the development of meningitis, or the inflammation of this layer of the meninges. Often the result of infection, bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, meningitis affecting the pia mater can be a life-threatening condition due to this membrane’s direct connection to the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of meningitis can include headaches, stiffness, and/or loss of consciousness.

In addition, the numerous spinal nerves that branch off the spinal cord are situated very closely to the pia mater, so any degenerative spine condition that causes these nerves to become “pinched” can also affect this membrane and cause it to become inflamed. Bone spurs, herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and other conditions can all cause neural compression in the spine, which may simultaneously cause problems with the pia mater.

Learn More

If you are feeling symptoms associated with meningitis, contact your doctor immediately. Typically, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid will be taken to test if meningitis is present. If you are suffering from chronic back pain or other symptoms that haven’t abated after weeks or months of conservative treatment, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more about our state-of-the-art endoscopic procedures that are minimally invasive methods to treat a variety of degenerative spine conditions.