Letter S

Subarachnoid

6 views

Literally, beneath the arachnoid, the middle of three membranes that cover the central nervous system.

In practice, subarachnoid usually refers to the space between the arachnoid and the pia mater, the innermost membrane surrounding the central nervous system.

The subarachnoid space is a potential space.

It normally contains cerebrospinal fluid.

A subarachnoid hemorrhage is a bleed into this space.

The arachnoid is named for its delicate, spider-web-like filaments that extend from its undersurface through the cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space to the pia mater.

'Arachnoid' comes from the Greek 'arachne' meaning spider or cobweb + 'eidos' meaning resemblance = spider-web-like.

Share this definition

Medical disclaimer

The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice in any way.

  • It does not replace the advice of a physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
  • It does not represent a prescription of drugs, diagnostic exams or therapies.
  • In case of symptoms, doubts or concerns about your health, always consult a qualified physician.

In case of emergency call 911 (US) or 112 (EU).