The outermost covering of the nerve is called the _______a)Perineurium...
The three layers of connective tissue surrounding each nerve are: Endoneurium. Each nerve axon, or fiber is surrounded by the endoneurium, which is also called the endoneurial tube, channel or sheath. ... The epineurium is the outermost layer of dense connective tissue enclosing the (peripheral) nerve.
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The outermost covering of the nerve is called the _______a)Perineurium...
**The Outermost Covering of the Nerve**
The outermost covering of the nerve is called the **Epineurium**. It is a thick layer of connective tissue that encloses the entire nerve and provides protection and support to the nerve fibers within.
**Function of Epineurium:**
1. **Protection:** The epineurium acts as a protective layer for the delicate nerve fibers. It shields the nerve from external forces and prevents damage.
2. **Support:** The epineurium provides structural support to the nerve. It helps to maintain the shape and integrity of the nerve and prevents it from collapsing.
3. **Containment:** The epineurium keeps the nerve fibers within the nerve bundle together. It holds the nerve fibers in place and prevents them from separating or getting tangled.
4. **Flexibility:** The epineurium allows the nerve to bend and move without causing damage to the underlying nerve fibers. It provides flexibility to the nerve, allowing it to withstand stretching and compression.
**Comparison with Other Nerve Coverings:**
- **Perineurium:** The perineurium is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds individual fascicles within a nerve bundle. It provides protection and support to the fascicles and contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the nerve fibers.
- **Myelin Sheath:** The myelin sheath is a layer of fatty material that surrounds and insulates the nerve fibers. It speeds up the conduction of nerve impulses and provides electrical insulation to prevent the loss of nerve signals.
- **Capsule:** The term "capsule" is not specifically used to describe the outer covering of a nerve. However, in certain contexts, it can refer to a protective structure that surrounds a nerve or an organ. For example, the joint capsule encloses and protects the joint, while the renal capsule surrounds and protects the kidneys.
So, the correct answer is option B: Epineurium.
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