What are the anatomical structures involved in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) ?
The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord suspended within a fluid called the cerebral spinal fluid and covered by membranes called meninges. The brain and spinal cord are made up of neurons which are the fundamental units of the central nervous system. They receive signals or information, integrate them and communicate them to the target cells. The central nervous system also consists of non-neuronal cells called glial cells, which do not conduct nerve impulses but provide support, nourishment, and protection to the neurons. Unlike neurons, glial cells are capable of regenerating. Researches and observations have lead to the idea that inducing seizures result in restoration of the glial cells which causes improvement in psychiatric illnesses.