Posterior column-medial lemniscus pathway (PCML)

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The posterior column-medial lemniscus pathway (PCML) is a sensory pathway of the central nervous system that conveys information about fine touch, two-point discrimination, proprioception, and vibration sensations from the skin and joints. Its name is derived from the two major structures that comprise the PCML:

• Posterior column: which transmits information through the posterior (dorsal) column of the spinal cord and terminates in the medulla oblongata. It is formed by two large bundles of nerve fibers: fasciculus gracilis and fasciculus cuneatus.
• Medial lemniscus: continuation of the posterior column in the brainstem that carries information to the thalamus, which then relays it through the internal capsule to the somatosensory cortex.

Learn more about the posterior column-medial lemniscus pathway (PCML) by watching the video below!

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Summary