As
we all know by now the Corpus Callosum is a very important brain structure that
serves as a bridge between the two hemispheres. The Corpus Callosum connects
both hemispheres and allows for transfer of information from one side to the
other. So what happens when an individual is born without a Corpus Callosum?
The
correct term is agenesis of the Corpus Callosum, where a person is born missing
the entire structure or parts of it. It is actually a very rare occurrence and
according to the Scientific American only one in four thousand babies are born
with this agenesis. The lack of this brain structure can only be detected by neuroimaging
such as an MRI test. During pregnancy agenesis of the Corpus Callosum can also
be seen in an ultrasound. In fact most cases of agenesis of the Corpus Callosum
go undetected because it is not something that can be seen. A person with this
disability is more likely to be diagnosed with other brain disorders such as autism
or depression. Symptoms of this condition also include poor coordination,
attention deficit, and vision and hearing problems.
The
absence of the Corpus Callosum can cause disabilities ranging from severe to
mild. One disability can be a learning delay while another can be cognitive
deficits caused by other malformations apart from the Corpus Callosum. The
brain finds other alternatives to be able to send information between the left
and right hemisphere. An example of adaptation is the enlargement of the five
brain commissures. Larger brain commissure, that also connect both hemispheres
allow for proper information sharing.
As
with many brain disorders or disabilities they are no cures for agenesis of the
Corpus Callosum. What do exist are treatment options such as prescribed
medication and even occupational therapy. Most people who suffer only from this
disorder are able to carry out a normal life with only a couple of limitations.
This is a good article Adriana, I think this is a really interesting disability that certain people develop in their lives because how the video mentions, the corpus callosum is used to transfer information from one side of the hemisphere to the other, and without the corpus callosum people might not be able to differentiate between the shape of an object with one side of their hemisphere or how to say something. I also think that medication is not a good treatment for the disorders that people might experience, would rather people use occupational therapy.
ReplyDeleteAdriana, I found this topic extremely informative and interesting. For starters I had no idea people could be born without a Corpus Callosum, or at least don't remember reading anything about it, so I'm glad you shared this information. I did know the importance/significance of having one (it allows us to pass information from one side of the brain to the other, like you mentioned) but the fact that people can live without it and have a nearly normal lifestyle is fascinating. This of course is possible thanks to the other regions of our brain, which take on the role of communication. Therapy of any sort is typically the first choice I feel everyone should consider, especially in this kind of situation, since the use of medication usually comes with unknown and unwanted side effects.
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