Embryonalentwicklung umfasst 3 Keimblätter:
entwickeln am Anfang der Entwicklung des Embryos/alle Organe leiten sich aus denen ab. Alle Zelle/Organe können einem dieser Keimblätter zugeordnet werden.
Das 3. Biologische Naturgesetz ordnet nach Keimblätter verschiedenen Geschwülste/Schwellungen/Ulzer nach ihren Kriterien der verschiedenen Keimblätter, dann stellt man fest, dass die Krankheiten mit gleicher Keimblattzugehörigkeit (beim Mesoderm unterschieden zwischen Zugehörigkeit zu Kleinhirn-/Großhirnmark) auch noch andere Eigenschaften und Besonderheiten aufweisen.
Zu jedem dieser Keimblätter gehört ein spezieller Gehirnteil/eine bestimmte Art von Konfliktinhalt/eine bestimmte Lokalisation im Gehirn/eine ganz bestimmte Histologie, spezifische keimblattverwandte Mikroben/und jede Krankheit.
1. Endoderm (=
inneres Keimblatt), Die Zellen/Organe, die sich aus Entoderm entwickelt haben,
haben ihren Steuerungsplatz im Stammhirn (ältesten Hirnteil). Auch hier
herrscht eine geordnete Lokalisation, r. dorsal mit
Munderkrankungen/Nasenrachenraums/ordnen sich dann entgegen dem Uhrzeigersinn:
dem Magen-Darmtrakt/Sigma/Blase. [phlegmatic temperament associated with the brain fluids, lymph and
genito-urinary system]
Histologisch sind alle Karzinome AdenoKarzinome. Die zu diesem Keimblatt gehörenden Organe machen im Krebsfall Zellvermehrung mit kompakten Tumoren des AdenoZelltyps, z.B. Leber/Darm/Lunge (Rundherde).
Aus dem Endoderm bilden sich die Epithelien folgender Organe:
forms tissue of organs exposed to the external environment
(skin/epithelium of cornea/conjunctiva and iris, lens of the eyes/hair (not
roots)/nails/teeth enamel/external auditory canal/tympanic Membrane (ear
drum)/lower part of anal canal/terminal part of male urethra/outer part of
vagina/lips/cheeks/gums/outer covering of tonsils (= outermost tissues = the
peripheral tissues of Herings Law of cure).
* Verdauungstrakt (ausgenommen Mundhöhle und After) inkl. Drüsen
* Leber
* Pankreas
* Schilddrüse
* Thymus
* Atmungstrakt
* Harnblase
* Harnröhre
[choleric temperament associated with liver/gall bladder/digestive and
eliminative systems/(earth) usually a warm/dry/rectangular or square body/tight
connective
tissue/yellowish complexion/practical/rational,
prone to anger/irritability/impatience]
[phlegmatic temperament associated with brain
fluids, lymph and genito-urinary system/(water) chilly/watery/round or oval
body with white complexion/lax soft
tissue/sympathetic
and sensitive, prone to fearfulness/tearfulness/sadness]
2. Mesoderm (= mittleres Keimblatt),
Unterscheidet sich
A. eine Ältere Gruppe (machen ebenfalls kompakte Tumoren in der konfliktaktiven Phase und zwar vom adenoiden Zelltyp: z.B. Brust, Melanom),
Mesotheliome = Pericard, Pleura, Peritoneum.
B. eine jüngere Gruppe (Zellen bzw. Organe haben ihren Steuerungsplatz im Kleinhirn/sie gehören noch zum Junghirn/im Marklager des Großhirns, und
machen im Krebsfalle in der konfliktaktiven Phase Nekrosen o. Gewebslöcher, also Zelleinschmelzung, hier z.B. die Löcher im
Knochen/Milz/Niere/Ovar).
3. Ektoderm (= äußeres Keimblatt).
Auricular
acupuncture = Ohrakupunktur
Das Ohr stellt eine exakte Somatotopie des gesamten Organismus dar. Ihrer embryonalen Entwicklung entsprechend
die entodermalen Organe (Magen- und Darmtrakt, innere Organe) spiegeln sich in der durch den Vagus versorgten Concha,
die mesodermalen Somatotopien (Knochen, Muskeln, Gefäße, Herz, Niere, Genitalien) in dem durch den N. trigeminus versorgten zwischen der Concha und der Helix gelegenen Gebiet
die des ektodermalen Keimblattes (Nervensystem, Haut) in dem durch den N. auriculus magnus versorgten Gebiet, Ohrrückseite, Helixrand und Ohrläppchen.
‡ Ist he sphere of the
senses. ‡
Spinnen haben Bezug zu innere Ectoderm = Nerven.
Milben haben Bezug zu äußere Ectoderm = Haut.
Alle Zellen/Organe aus dem Ektoderm entwickelt, haben ihren Steuerungsplatz in der Hirnrinde des Großhirns (jüngsten Hirnteil). Sie alle machen im Krebsfall Zellenschmelzung in Form von Geschwüren/Ulzera oder aber eine Funktionseinbuße auf organischer Ebene, auch z.B. Diabetes o. eine Lähmung.
Das ontogenetischbedingte System der Mikroben", ordnet die Mikroben den 3 Keimblättern zu, denn zu jedem Keimblatt verwandte Organgruppe gehören auch spezifische keimblattverwandte Mikroben. Denn zusammen mit der Programmierung unserer Organe in den verschiedenen Hirnrelais unseres Computer Gehirns sind auch unsere treuen Spezialarbeiter, die Mikroben, gleich mit einprogrammiert worden.
Hieraus ergibt sich:
1. Endoderm: die ältesten Mikroben, Pilze und Pilzbakterien (Mykobakterien).
2. Mesoderm (nur für die Althirngesteuerten Organe) die alten Mikroben (Bakterien) und alle Organe, die davon gebildet worden sind,
3. Ektoderm: die jungen, sog. Mikroben (Viren) ausschließlich für die von der Großhirnrinde gesteuerten Organe zuständig sind. Sie sollen die Größe eines Tausendstels bis Dreitausendstels eines Bakteriums haben, sind aber bisher nur hypothetisch.
„Zuständig" heißt in diesem Sinne, dass jede der Mikroben Gruppen jeweils nur bestimmte Organgruppen „bearbeitet", die die gleiche Keimblattzugehörigkeit haben, d.h. aus dem gleichen Keimblatt entstammen. Eine Ausnahme macht nur das „Grenzgebiet" der mesodermalen Kleinhirn gesteuerten Organe, die sowohl (überwiegend) von den Mykosen und Mykobakterien „bearbeitet" werden, als auch (weniger häufig) von den Bakterien, die normalerweise für die vom Marklager des Großhirns gesteuerten Organe des mittleren Keimblattes (Mesoderm) zuständig sind.
Endomorph
* Endomorph - Neigung zu Adipositas (auch pyknomorph)
Erkennbar sind weiche Muskulatur, kurze Arme und Beine, rundes Gesicht, kurzer Hals, glatte und weiche Haut, breite Hüften, starke Fettaufspeicherung und viele, aber dünne Haare. Auf den Philosophen G.W.F. Hegel zurückgehend ist dieser Konstitutionstypus in Süddeutschland auch bekannt unter dem Begriff der Bierwirtsphysiognomie. Endomorphe Menschen werden häufig als klein und adipös beschrieben; es gibt aber auch hochwüchsige mit endomorphem Körperbautyp.
Ektomorph Neigung zu Schlankheit (auch leptosom)
Er wird charakterisiert durch kurzen Oberkörper, lange Arme und Beine, schmale Füße und Hände sowie sehr geringe Fettspeicherung. Erkennbar sind ein eher kleiner Brustkorb und schmale Schultern, meist lange, dünne Muskeln. Die Haare sind dünn und nicht dicht. Ektomorphe/ leptosome Menschen sind meist hochwüchsig; es besteht aber auch die Möglichkeit geringer Körpergröße bei Ektomorphie.
Mesomorph
Sycotisch
Mesoderm develops 2 types of tissue:
1. Mesenchyme formed foremost from Mesoderm
forms the parenchyma lining of all the internal organs; the connective tissues
(blood/lymph/bones/cartilages/muscles/skin/fascias/coverings of organs). This
tissue is the link between the Endoderm epithelium that forms the inner lining
of organs and mesodermal viscera (= following). sense organ development
(arising from the mesenchymal system) includes the evolution of a plexus of
veins (eyeball surrounded by the vorticose veins/base of the brain by the
mighty transverse and cavernous sinuses/spinal marrow by the internal vertebral
plexuses).
Lien comp. Wala: Anregung der mesenchymalen Funktionen, z. B. bei allgemeiner Abwehrschwäche
2. Mesothelium forms all internal
organs/viscera (lung parenchyma/kidneys/muscles forming the trachea/heart/blood
vessels/pleura/peritoneum/pericardium/duramater/piamater/spleen/liver)
These are deeper tissues, important organs affected only after there is
suppression at the Ectodermal and Endodermal level.
* Knochen
* Skelettmuskulatur
* Bindegewebe
* glatte Muskulatur der Eingeweide
* Herz
* Blutgefäße
* Blutkörperchen
* Milz
* Lymphknoten
* Lymphgefäße
* Nieren
* Keimdrüsen
* innere Geschlechtsorgane
[sanguine temperament
relates to the heart, blood and arteries/(fire) hot/moist/triangular or barrel
chested body, muscular or fleshy tissue/red complexion, optimistic/joyful,
prone to pride/passion/cruelty]
Mesomorph - Neigung zu Muskulosität (auch metromorph)
Erkennbar sind ein mächtiger Brustkorb, feste und dicke Haare, Körper in V-Form (Sanduhrform bei Frauen), dicke Haut, markante Wangenknochen und massiver Unterkiefer, langes und breites Gesicht, Fettanlagerungen im Allgemeinen meist nur an Bauch und Hüfte, große Hände und Füße, langer Oberkörper, kräftige Muskulatur und große Körperkraft. Die Mesomorphie kann in athletische und normale Form unterteilt werden.
Syphillitisch
The Ektoderm forms inner linings (mucosal linings) of the respiratory
system/gastrointestinal system/urinary tract/epithelium of the gall
bladder/extra-hepatic duct/endoderm cells of Liver parenchyma.
This layer too, when symptomatic is a peripheral expression of disease
but deeper to the Ectoderm above.
A 4th specialized cell type develops from the Ectoderm as well, called
the Neuro-ectoderm [nervous system central and peripheral/form the secretory
cells of the neuroendocrine glands and neurotransmitters scattered in various
organs and tissues all over the body (secrete neurotransmitters or hormones and
are classified together under the APUD System (= Amine Precursor Uptake
Decarboxylate System) are of 3 types:
1. From Neural Crest Origin: Thyroid/Adrenal Medulla/Melanoblasts of the
Dermis, Cells in the Uorgenital tract secreting 5-Hydroxytrytamine.
2. Neuro Ectodermal origin: Hypothalamus/Parathyroid/Pituitary.
Some APUD cells of disputed origin are Islets of Langerhans in the
Pancreas.
Affection of these tissues, is due to longterm suppression and are the
"important organs", "inside" and "centre" of
Hering's Law of Cure.
Aus dem Ektoderm bilden sich: It is by no means a universal rule that
effect on the one is always accompanied by effects on the other.
* Haut (Cutis)
* Nervensystem
* Sinnesorgane
* Mammae
[melancholic
temperament associated with the nerves, lungs and spleen/(air) cool/dry/thin
body with pipe stem bones/little flesh/gray, ashy
complexion/intelligent/sophisticated, prone to
pensiveness/restlessness/depression].
[phlegmatic temperament associated with brain
fluids, lymph and genito-urinary system/(water) chilly/watery/round or oval
body with white complexion/lax soft tissue/sympathetic and sensitive, prone to
fearfulness/tearfulness/sadness]
Endomorph - Neigung zu Adipositas (auch pyknomorph)
Erkennbar sind weiche Muskulatur, kurze Arme und Beine, rundes Gesicht, kurzer Hals, glatte und weiche Haut, breite Hüften, starke Fettaufspeicherung und viele, aber dünne Haare. Auf den Philosophen G.W.F. Hegel zurückgehend ist dieser Konstitutionstypus in Süddeutschland auch bekannt unter dem Begriff der Bierwirtsphysiognomie. Endomorphe Menschen werden häufig als klein und adipös beschrieben; es gibt aber auch hochwüchsige mit endomorphem Körperbautyp.
Psorisch
Parenchym (von gr. enchyma „das Eingegossene“, „Füllung“) bezeichnet tierisches o. pflanzliches Grundgewebe. In der Regel weisen die das Gewebe bildenden Zellen keine besondere anatomische Differenzierung auf.
Frei nach: Dennis Klocek
The Heart is the key to the world and to Life.
We live in our present helpless condition
In order to love one another
And be obliged to help one another.
Through imperfection we become open
To the influence of others
And this influence from outside is the aim
That in our frailties
Others can and may help us.
Novalis
In the embryology of the human heart the first forms that appear reveal a deep
mystery to physiologists. The middle layer, or mesoderm, is the most active of
the three layers in the early embryo. It proliferates inside and even outside
of the embryo early in the first week. At that time, an inner space
mysteriously opens in the mesoderm. This magical space, or pericardium,
appears, with no previous indicators, just outside of the head on the periphery
of the embryonic disc. The pericardium then enters through the primal mouth
opening of the inner mesoderm and descends through the body of the embryo
towards the chest. Simultaneously, near the tail end, other mesodermal cells
modify into blood-filled veins known as yolk veins. The pericardial cavity and
the yolk veins develop on opposite ends, outside of the body of the embryo.
Eventually the yolk veins from below will meet the descending pericardial space
and penetrate it in the very center of the body. The union of these two polar
developments is the formal motif that underlies the miracle of the human heart.
The mesoderm completely permeates the inside and the outside of the
embryo in its early development. Buds of organs rise out of the mesoderm like
buds rising out of the cambium of a tree. Some buds are formed outside of the
embryo and some are within the embryo. 
In the first week many of these buds
form in
the mesoderm of the yolk sac in the gut region of the embryonic disc. In
these yolk sac buds, the cells that are on the periphery of the bud flatten and
form plates. At the same time, cells in the center of the yolk sac buds form
donut-shaped blood cells.
As the buds proliferate on the periphery of the yolk sac, the flattened
plates of cells join each other on their sides and then canalize into each
other to form islands of capillaries.
Inside the canals of the capillaries, the donut-shaped blood cells from
the center of the buds form the blood itself. Together the vessels and blood
cells form vascular, sponge-like tissues called blood islands. These blood
islands are the first seed-like formation of the heart in the metabolic region.
It is hoped that with these imaginations a spark of interest can be
kindled to study the morphology of our human body as a central motif in the
task of self-knowledge. Physiology and morphology are the keys to the secret
door of self-knowledge. When we can picture inwardly the sequences of creative
movements that the Hierarchies have presented to us in the sublime morphology
of the embryo, the door to self-knowledge is unlocked. Meditatively working
with the images as a sequence of inner pictures slowly opens the inner door to
an experience of the imaginative capacity in the soul. In this way the embryo
can be experienced as the keeper of the keys to self-knowledge.
‡
Folgendes hat
anthroposofische Einschlüße ‡
Frei nach: Arne Enge
The embryonic disc
Implantation in the uterine wall is complete at about 2 after fertilization.
The structure that will later be the whole human form is a thin, flat disc at
this stage, c. 1.5 mm in diameter and only a few cell layers in thickness (Figs
1, 2a).
Above is the
"amniotic cavity" which will later surround the whole form, now
cylindrical. On the underside lies the yolk sac. These spaces are enveloped by
the developing placenta, in terms of volume the dominant part of the original
fertilized ovum. The top of the disc consists of a layer of columnar
epithelium, the ectoderm. On the yolk-sac side a layer of cubic cells forms the
endoderm. Between these layers lies the mesoderm, a thin layer of loosely
organized cells. (The ectoderm will later develop into skin, sense organs and
nervous system, the mesoderm into muscles, connective tissue, skeleton, heart,
blood vessels and blood cells, the endoderm into the whole digestive system
with the different internal organs. In other words, the threefold human being
is emerging, as also noted by Karl Koenig and others.)
At this point is it of special interest to note that the external meatus, with
its connection to the skin, derives from the ectoderm, whilst the Eustachian
tube and tympanic cavity evolve from the direction of the pharynx and are
endodermal in origin.
During progressive growth and differentiation in weeks 3 and 4 the emphasis in
terms of size is on the ectoderm as the central nervous system is established.
A number of authors, Blechschmidt 1 among them, have shown that many essential
form processes are stimulated by the ectoderm. Examples are the development of
the CNS, growth of the ectoderm as the disc curves, early development of the
extremities, and much more. It seems as if generative forces "pour"
from the amniotic cavity through the ectoderm into the disc. In a discussion
with physicians R. Steiner spoke of a special connection between amniotic
cavity and ether body.
Seen from the amnion, the disc is almost circular 15-18 days after
fertilization (Fig. 2a), gradually becoming more oval. The primitive streak
(Fig. 2b) marks the future longitudinal axis. It extends from the narrow
posterior pole to about the center of the disc, to the primitive knot, and then
continues in the mesodermal layer as dorsal chord, terminating in the
prechordal plate at the broader anterior pole of the disc (Figs 2b, 3a).
This tenuous structure determines all further growth and differentiation of the
disc. We might say it shows the way for later formative processes.
Development of the primitive streak and dorsal chord give the originally
circular disc a definite shape. Now there is not only above and below, but also
anterior and posterior, left and right. Whilst still an open canal connecting
with primitive streak and amniotic cavity, the chord penetrates to the yolk sac
on its way through the mesoderm. This creates an interesting short- term open
connection between amnion and yolk sac, the neurenteric canal (Fig. 3b).
Not only the chord develops, going from primitive streak to mesoderm. The
primitive streak also induces the retrograde and lateral migration of
mesenchymal cells (Figs 4 a,b). The somites and the lateral mesenchyme evolve
from those cells, among other things. They in turn give rise to the spine and
the greater part of the musculature of back, rib-cage and abdominal wall. Many
aspects of mesenchymal development are still unknown. Here it is of particular
interest that the primitive streak and later the chordal process induce the
development of central parts of the locomotor system and the human form. The
CNS, which also plays a major part in shaping our outer form, appears to take
its orientation from these structures, with the neural tube developing parallel
to the primitive streak and chordal process.
The tympanic membrane
The tympanic membrane or eardrum is many times the size and thickness of the
embryonic disc, but the similarity of form and structure is remarkable. The
tympanic membrane has an ectodermal outer and an endodermal inner aspect, and
is the area of contact between external auditory meatus and tympanic cavity or
middle ear.
Four branchial (pharyngeal) arches develop by the end of the 5th week. Meckel's
cartilage, malleus and incus develop from the first arch, the hyoid and among
other things part of the pharynx from the arches posterior to it. Between these
arches lie the branchial grooves, which gradually disappear almost completely.
The primordium of the external meatus derives from the laterodorsal part of the
first branchial groove. As the head grows it comes to lie more and more deeply
inside it. For a time, the meatus is almost completely filled with loose
ectoderm, the meatal plate. This disappears between the 5th and 7th months, and
the meatus is then open to the amniotic fluid. The base of the meatus is the
ectodermal side of the tympanic membrane which thus is in touch with the
amnion, as is the ectodermal aspect of the embryonic disc.
The other parts of the ear develop inside. Let us consider the embryo-genesis
of the middle ear. The first pharyngeal pouch narrows laterally, with two
narrow canals developing to the left and the right. These go in the direction
of the ears and become the Eustachian or auditory tubes on either side. The
beginnings of malleus, incus and stapes are already present in a more lateral
position. The auditory tube widens into the tympanum as it approaches them.
The endodermal mucosa of the oral cavity lines the canal and gradually also the
ossicles and the inner aspect of the tympanic membrane (Figs 5 a & b). As a
result the membrane has an endodermal inner layer and an ectodermal outer
layer. (The original columnar epithelium of the outer layer is, like the skin,
later transformed into squamous epithelium.) Between the two layers lies a
mesodermal layer, 3 as in the embryonic disc, but in this case consisting of
circular and radial connective tissue and fine blood vessels. The shaft of the
malleus is anchored in this layer.
Further
similarities
Looking at the tympanic membrane through an otoscope we see further
similarities with the embryonic disc seen from above (Figs 6 & 7). The
membrane is oval but not entirely symmetrical. The shaft of the malleus can be
seen to stand out above the surface longitudinally if we angle the otoscope
slightly. It terminates in the umbo. The similarity to embryonic disc,
primitive streak and primitive knot is quite striking (Fig. 7).
Sounds
reach the tympanic membrane through the external meatus, setting it in motion.
The movement is concentrated by the shaft of the malleus and conducted via
malleus, incus and stapes, as if through a funnel. Here we have a fascinating
parallel to form-giving principles that are poured into the disc from the
ectodermal aspect, with the primitive streak and the chord acting like the
shaft of the malleus. The oscillations are conducted from the tympanic membrane
to the ossicles, whereas in the disc they actually create forms and organs,
with the "shaft of the malleus" in the disk pointing the way.
Here
the Gospel of John comes to mind: "In the beginning was the word, ... and
the Word became flesh and came to dwell among men."
The ENT
specialist A. Tomatis has given many interesting details concerning the
significance of hearing in pre- and postnatal development. 4 He says, for
instance, that the developing human form is like "a shell for a listening
creature", and that the most important dimension in the whole of human
development is to "listen for the sound of life (in its widest
sense)." Doesn't the similarity in the structure of tympanic membrane and
embryonic disc reflect the same thing?
Effects
on the senses
The relationship can also be seen the other way round, i.e. not the embryonic
disc as a tympanic membrane but the tympanic membrane as a persisting embryonic
disc. Tomatis has done experiments that show the important role received sounds
have for the development and function of the brain. R. Steiner states
emphatically that anything which influences us via the ears and other sense
organs has an important nourishing and anabolic function even for the internal
organs. 5 Some of this has already been established for the eyes, particularly
by the work of the ophthalmologist F. Hollwich. 6 Light and dark (and probably
colors as well) influence the endocrine glands, for instance, and their
profound effects.
We have
less information on this where the ears are concerned, but more will no doubt
become known as time goes on. It may be that one day similar relationships will
be discovered between eyes and endocrine glands. One might also think that the
relationship between hearing, breathing and the movements of cerebrospinal
fluid have significance. Then we may also ask ourselves what function hormones
have in the CSF. Such relationships can give us new impetus in recognizing the
importance of working with speech and music. We begin to get an inkling of the
efficacy of a number of therapies where speech and music are used in some way.
A less pleasant aspect is the question as to the effect of "noise
pollution" from all kinds of sources in today's environment, for we are
increasingly exposed to this from conception to our last breath.
Clinical
aspects
In conclusion, we may consider R. Steiner's frequent references to cancer as an
ear developed in the wrong place. We have seen the tympanic membrane to be a
structure that "arises anew" in a "roundabout way"
(external meatus, meatal plate, Eustachian tube, tympanic cavity) as an organ
that is embryonic in character. The outer ear with its cartilage and the inner
ear with cochlea and labyrinth may also be seen as structures tending in an
embryonic direction. 8 Embryonic form principles enter into the sphere of the
ear in a number of ways. Does this show a connection with R.S.'s statements
concerning cancer and ear development? Neoplastic tumors characteristically
show cells of an embryonic cast in tissues that originally were highly
differentiated.
‡ Folgendes hat anthroposofische Einschlüße ‡
Frei nach: Gisbert
Husemann, M.D.
Origins of the CSF
The CSF is secreted into the ventricles of the brain from the choroid plexuses.
"Choroid" derives from "chorion", the vascularized
embryonic envelope; the vessels form the placenta.
The ventricles of the brain are invaginated at an early stage by the
choroid plexuses, fringe-like vascular processes exactly the same in nature as
the placental chorionic villi. The escape valves (granulations) are also of the
villous type (v. i.).
Like the embryo, the brain is floating in fluid. Brain and embryo are
thus protected from pressure and given the freedom to grow and develop their
intrinsic form. In both cases, the fluid is secreted by an epithelium - the
epithelium of the amnion in the case of amniotic fluid, and the choroid
plexuses in that of cerebrospinal fluid. The head with its brain floating in CSF
retains this embryonic feature as a basis for its involutional tendencies. In
the case of the brain, the fluid is secreted against an osmotic pressure
gradient; being in osmotic hypertension, the brain would otherwise take up
water. There is a tendency for the brain to swell, to become oedematous, and
this is counteracted by the secretion of the CSF which forms a protective
envelope around it.
The greater part of the CSF is produced in the two lateral ventricles (I
and II), and enters the third ventricle (III) on either side through the
interventricular foramen. The central part of the third ventricle narrows to
form the aqueduct, and the CSF passes through this to the fourth ventricle
(IV), leaving it by the lateral apertures (Fig. 1, 2 and 3).
The CSF does not just go anywhere after this, but is collected in a kind
of sac formed by the arachnoid. The arachnoid is impermeable to water and the
brain rests on it like on a water-filled cushion (Fig. 1). It is therefore not
floating in the usual sense of the word. The space inside the cushion is known
as the subarachnoid space. In the superior median line of the brain,
villus-like elevations protrude from this space into the superior sagittal
sinus. These are valves through which the CSF escapes (arachnoid or pacchionian
granulations). Being enclosed in a cushion, the CSF becomes the receiver,
distributor and conductor of the alternating pressures transferred to the brain
via the CSF from the respiration and pulse. More of this later.
Fig. 1. The
circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid in the cavities within the brain.
Circulation of the CSF
The total volume of the CSF in the cranium and vertebral canal is 135 ml. This
is distributed as follows:
In the subarachnoid space (water-filled
cushion) 100 ml
Of this, the cranium contains 25 ml
and the vertebral
canal
75 ml
The ventricles of the brain
contain
35 ml
500 ml of CSF are produced daily, so that the quantity of 135 ml is
replaced almost four times in the course of 24 hours. This also reveals the
vital importance of the peripheral escape valves; without them, the brain would
be destroyed by water pressure within a short time.
The CSF contained in the cranium (25 ml + 35 ml) actually is renewed
approximately eight times in 24 hours. In the cranium, the source and the
outflow point (escape valves) lie closer to each other than in the vertebral
canal where renewal occurs at a slower rate. There, in the vertebral canal, the
fluid is like the water in a backwater, in a lagoon cut off from the open sea
and its wave movements (D. W. C. Northfield 1973).
Fig. 2. Cast of the cerebral ventricles (anterior aspect to the right).
The curved form of one of the lateral ventricles can be seen; between the two
lateral ventricles lies the third ventricle and this continues down into the
cerebral aqueduct (narrow tube) and then the fourth ventricle. The end of the
narrow tube continues into the central canal of the spinal cord. The hole in
the third ventricle is in life filled with a solid strand connecting the two
hemispheres (commisure). To the right above it, the place may be seen where the
ventricles communicate through the interventricular foramen.
The CSF pressure can be measured inside the cranium, in the ventricle,
and in the lumbar region. In the lumbar canal, the pressure is equal to that of
the dense venous plexuses in that region:
150 cm column of water = 11 mm Hg.
The pressure in the ventricles on the other hand is slightly below zero
when the subject is sitting down. If the pressure is determined below the
cerebellum, shortly before the CSF leaves the cerebellomedullary cistern, it
will be found to fluctuate between 40 mm and minus 85 mm CSF in a person
standing upright. At this point, beneath the cerebellum, the CSF therefore has
to be aspirated through the needle, as it will not escape under its own
pressure. "This means that during our waking hours, for about two thirds
of our life, the intracranial pressure is at zero or below" (D. W. C.
Northfield 1973). Negative pressures are easily thought of as suction forces,
and it is possible to think of suction forces involved in CSF production.
In the venous spaces (venous sinuses) into which the valves or escape
locks of the CSF project, the pressure is permanently below that of the
CSF itself. These pressure differences give rise to a "dynamic circulation
of the CSF" which takes place between the sites of secretion, i.e. the
plexuses that are the point of origin within the brain, and the CSF valves or
sites of escape at the surface of the brain. Arterial blood produces the fluid,
venous blood receives it. The brain and the spinal marrow are placed within
this special fluid circulation system. If this circulation ceases, or if it is
obstructed by coagula or pressure from a tumor at one of the narrower points,
brain function is immediately threatened.
Let us now consider the CSF circulation in comparison to the blood
circulation. Whilst the CSF is replaced 4x dayly, 1.200 ml of blood pass
through the brain in one minute. This reveals the enormous difference
between the slow movement of the CSF on the one hand and the tremendous
acceleration in the movement of the blood on the other.
Fig. 3. Ventricular
cavities in the human brain (seen from above).
I-IV = 1st - 4th
ventricle
a = interventricular foramen
b = cerebral aqueduct
c = foramen of Magendie
d = lateral aperture of fourth
ventricle
Z = central canal of the spinal cord
In this difference between the flow rate of two fluids we are able to
perceive another function of the CSF. The brain is relieved of the conditions
of gravity and it also opposes the accelerated blood flow with a circulation of
its own that is very much slower. Being present all around the brain, the CSF
ensures the even distribution of the pulsating pressure of the blood flowing
through it, so that we do not feel this pressure. The CSF has here an
equalizing function, spread out over an area, that counteracts the pulsating,
swelling pressure of the brain (turgor). It assists the veins, suppressing the
waves of blood coming from the heart. Without the CSF, the brain would
experience the full power of the strong pulse beat we can feel in the neck.
The hydrostatic function of the CSF that eliminates weight is a
precondition for the other function through which the pulsating movement of the
blood is muted and brought to rest in the head. The one is a specialized
function arising from the other. The function of suppressing the blood is a
special differentiation and a consequence of the loss of weight effected by the
CSF. The function of the CSF relating to the weight of the brain is more of an
outer function; it becomes more of an inner function in relation to the number
of pulse waves which the CSF opposes with its slowness, capturing them and
making them ineffective.
We noted that the circulation of the CSF is maintained by forces of
pressure and of negative pressure or suction. These are the same forces as the
gravity and buoyancy acting on the brain, but in a modified form, functions of
a dynamic circulation.
The configuration of the ventricular system reflects the growth and
development of the brain. The hindbrain grows from front to back in a circular
arc; it comes to overlie the older parts of the brain. Inside the brain, this
anteroposterior movement is reflected in an empty space, a negative form, and
the CSF is secreted into this. From these empirical data arises the concept of
a negative space with suction properties. Inside the brain, we can see etheric
space taking organic form and having an effect on gravity through the CSF. At
the same time we consider the conditions under which thinking is freed from the
forces of growth and from disruptive organic functions: The forces of the inner
negative space become outer ones in the liquor, and in doing so cancel the
property of gravity that belongs to outer matter. The forces of etheric space
need a mediator if they are to act on the mechanics of the physical and mineral
world. The CSF is that mediator, a medium that enters into both spheres of
forces.
This concept of a medium which we have now established can also be
applied to the potentizing tendency in the cranium that was referred to at the
end of Part I of this paper. Matter has mass, like the brain; the residual
weight of the brain indicates that matter can be potentized through rhythm; its
forces are active in the medium, which is analogous to the CSF.
Respiration and the
CSF
The CSF in the vertebral canal is displaced by the respiratory movements;
synchronous with the movements of the lung, the fluid is pushed up and down and
therefore also moves within the water-filled cushion. There are two basic
physiological preconditions for this. Firstly, the veins at the base of the
skull that lie adjacent to the CSF space and the veins of the thorax and
abdomen are all in communication, and a similar communication exists also
between the venous plexuses of the vertebral canal and the CSF in the vertebral
canal.
The second precondition is that the normal venous pressure is equal to
the pressure of the CSF. Any increase in venous pressure is immediately
reflected in the CSF and vice versa.
We have already established that the CSF space is a sensitive pressure
receptor. How can the pressure in the CSF be raised? By coughing, sneezing, and
pressure on the lateral veins in the neck. This causes congestion in the veins
of the neck, and drainage of blood from the brain is impeded. The blood held
back above the compressed veins causes the CSF pressure in the cranium to rise.
The pressure is transferred via the veins of the neck into the water-filled
cushion in the cranium. The same effect is produced by coughing and sneezing,
with the increased respiratory pressure passing right into the cranium, i.e.
passing through the veins and into the cranial CSF.
If a cerebellar tumor obstructs CSF drainage, the CSF is forced forward
by the increased pressure and into the sheath of the optic nerve. Fundoscopy
will show papilloedema at the point of entry of the optic nerve into the eye.
Abdominal muscular pressure can produce a similar effect, by putting increased
pressure on the abdominal veins. The resulting back pressure of the blood is
comparable to that produced by compression of the veins in the neck, but the
route by which the pressure is transferred is much longer, passing via the
veins of the spinal cord, through the vertebral canal, to the CSF in the
cranium.
The foramen magnum acts as a safety valve in this case, for it is at
this point that the spinal fluid that is forced upwards is able to escape into
the cranium. It is also the point where CSF from the cranium can escape into the
vertebral canal.
The foramen magnum is an extremely sensitive valve. If a spinal puncture
is done in a patient with a cerebellar tumor, the flow of fluid from the needle
may cease abruptly.
The tumor and the cerebellum are suddenly pushing the medulla oblongata
into the foramen, breaking the communication between the CSF in the cranium and
the vertebral canal. Pressure of nervous tissue on the bony margins and
surrounding areas causes fatal nerve cell damage in this area, among other
things to the respiratory centre. That is why sudden death may occur on lumbar
puncture if a cerebellar tumor is present. It serves as an example to
demonstrate the important role the CSF plays in maintaining the nervous system,
and what can happen when buoyancy is lost and gravity alone is taking effect.
The effect Hyrtl produced in dogs (Part I of this paper) here occurs in man due
to pathological causes.
Coughing, sneezing and abdominal muscular pressure are only able to
produce those one-sided pressure changes in the CSF because they increase
respiratory pressure. The effect of an inspiration is as follows: As soon as
the diaphragm pushes further down into the abdomen, there is increased pressure
on the abdominal veins, with the result that some of the CSF in the vertebral canal
moves up into the cranium, lifting the brain. The actual pressure of the
cranial CSF begins to increase when the descending diaphragm reduces the volume
of the abdominal cavity. The inspiratory pressure therefore effects first a
reduction in abdominal space, then increased pressure in the veins of the
abdomen, in the CSF in the vertebral canal, and finally in the CSF in the
cranium; the increase in pressure travels along this route like a wave, finally
lifting the brain. Inspiration and expiration may be compared as follows:
Inspiration
Expiration
1) as the diaphragm
1)as the diaphragm
descends, putting pressure
ascends, reducing the
pressure
on the abdominal veins,
on the abdominal veins,
the increased pressure in
the veins of the vertebral
the veins is
transferred
canal and the CSF are
to the vertebral canal;
subject to less pressure,
increased CSF pressure
with the result that CSF
drives the fluid through
moves down from
the cranial
the foramen magnum into
space, again through the
the cranium. The brain
foramen magnum. The
brain
is lifted forward and up;
moves downward,
following
it follows the upward
the downward movement
movement of the CSF.
of the CSF.
2) The movement of the CSF
2) The
movement of the CSF
becomes a reflection
of
becomes a
reflection of
inspiration: As air is
expiration: As carbon dioxide
forced into the lungs,
leaves the
lung, so fluid
so fluid is forced into
flows from the cranium.
the cranium on inspiration.
As far as I can see, Rudolf Steiner always referred to this abdominal
form of respiration.
With the thoracic form of respiration, conditions are reversed:
inspiration produces a negative pressure in the veins of the neck, resulting in
the brain moving down; expiration causes an increase in pressure, lifting the
brain. A mixed form of respiration would result in a brief thoracic upbeat,
followed by an abdominal main beat. To quote Rudolf Steiner:
"In breathing the air out, we push the diaphragm upwards. That
action is connected with a relief of pressure on the whole organic system below
the diaphragm. As a result, the cerebrospinal fluid in the skull, in which the
brain is floating, is pushed downwards. This cerebrospinal fluid is nothing but
a denser modification, as I should like to put it, of the air, for it is in
truth the exhaled air which causes this. When I inhale again, the cerebrospinal
fluid is pushed upwards, and in my breathing I am constantly living in this
downward and upward movement of the cerebrospinal fluid, a distinct reflection
of the whole respiratory process". (R. Steiner, Nat. Sc. Course 1920/21,
Bibl. No. 320).
The respiration has two functions. One of them is physiological, the
control of oxygen and carbon dioxide as a chemical function. The other proceeds
concurrently, on the basis of the differences in pressure produced as we inhale
oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. Both are transmitted through the whole body.
The excursions of the CSF bring an external physical principle into play
biologically, their function being to lift out the organ of thought and to damp
down the pulsation of the blood. That is achieved for the brain, for instance,
and for the closely adjacent senses. Chemically this is reflected also in the
well-known blood-brain barrier existing on the material level, a barrier that
makes it difficult to use therapeutic agents in material form to treat the
brain and nervous system.
Carbon dioxide has a powerful effect on the cerebral vessels and
therefore on the circulation of the brain. 5-7 % of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the
air we breathe cause a 70 % increase in cerebral blood flow. The vessels
dilate, so that more blood is able to pass through them. If the CO2 level
drops, e. g. by increased exhalation, vasoconstriction results, and the
circulatory volume may drop by one third.
If we get a person to inhale pure oxygen, blood flow is cut down by
reflex action; a reduction in oxygen (to 10 % of the air inhaled) will increase
the circulation. The two respiratory gases carbon dioxide and oxygen thus act
as chemical agents; the CSF produces the same effect "physically", by
acting from without - for it is obvious that the circulation of the brain is
subtly changed as the fluid moves up and down. The respiratory function is thus
reflected in the excursions of the CSF, and the movement of the CSF presents
itself as a modified, denser form of
respiration.
Vergleich: Siehe: Theorien
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