Autonomic ganglion

Sympathetic nervous system innervation, showing the sympathetic chain ganglia

An autonomic ganglion is a collection of neuron cell bodies within the autonomic nervous system.

Sympathetic ganglia

Ganglia of the sympathetic nervous system deliver information to the body about stress and impending danger, and evokes the familiar fight-or-flight response when activated.

Sympathetic chain ganglia

The sympathetic chain ganglia are located just anterior to the spinal cord. Preganglionic nerves from the central nervous system synapse at one of the chain ganglia and the postganglionic fiber extends to an effector, typically a visceral organ in the thoracic cavity.

Collateral ganglia

Neurons of the collateral ganglia, also called the prevertebral ganglia, receive input from the splanchnic nerves and innervate organs of the abdominal and pelvic region. These include the celiac ganglia, superior mesenteric ganglia, and inferior mesenteric ganglia.

Parasympathetic ganglia

Terminal ganglia

Terminal ganglia, or intramural ganglia, are so named because of their close proximity to effector organs and glands.

External links

• The Autonomic Nervous System from the University of Arizona