Reticular Activating System

Also written as RAS.

Reticular activating system (RAS) – maintains arousal; disruption produces the inattention of delirium.

What our notes say

• Reticular activating system (RAS) – maintains arousal; disruption produces the inattention of delirium. (Dementia and delirium)
• | Altered consciousness – from lethargy to coma | Progressive compression of the reticular activating system as ICP rises. | (Raised intracranial pressure)
• | Altered level of consciousness (GCS <15) | Direct compression of the ascending reticular activating system. | (Raised intracranial pressure)
• Pathogenesis: Likely involves dysregulation of the reticular activating system in the brainstem (exact mechanism unknown). (CNS Trauma Neuropathology: Fractures, Concussion & CTE)

Study material on Reticular Activating System

• Dementia and delirium

Related topics

• Skull
• Limbic System
• Level of Consciousness
• Delirium
• Cranial Nerves
• Bacterial Meningitis
• Cerebellum
• Meningitis
• Dementia
• Brainstem