MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Central nervous system

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Central nervous system

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Illustrations	Definition

Illustrations

Vertebra and spinal nerves

Definition Return to top

The central nervous system refers to the brain and spinal cord. The brain and spinal cord serve as the main "processing center" for the entire nervous system, and control all the workings of the body.

The central nervous system does not include the peripheral nerves in the arms, legs, muscles, and organs.

Update Date: 5/22/2007

Updated by: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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