ABSTRACT
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) provides a rapidly responding mechanism to control a wide range of functions. Cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal,
renal, endocrine, and other systems are regulated by either the sympathetic or the parasympathetic nervous system. The ANS innervates every visceral organ of the body. Body functions, which can proceed independently of volition activity, are regulated at least in part by reflex mechanisms served by afferents, efferents, and central integrating structures included in the ANS. The ANS has a complex neural organization in the brain, spinal cord, and periphery. The hypothalamus can be considered the highest level of integration of autonomic function. It is under the influence of the cortex and structures of the limbic system, which includes the hippocampus and amygdaloid complex, the olfactory areas, the cingulate cortex, and the septal area. The limbic system function is believed to be concerned with lev-
538 Natali-Sora and Pozza
Figure 1 Sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic nervous system.
