Brodmann area 21

Brodmann area 21 is one of the cytoarchitectonic areas of the human brain. According to Brodmann's classification, it is part of the temporal lobe and is also known as the middle temporal area 21. This area is involved in auditory processing and language comprehension.

Anatomy

Brodmann area 21 is located in the middle part of the temporal lobe, between Brodmann area 20 (inferior temporal area) and Brodmann area 22 (superior temporal area). It is bordered by the Sylvian fissure (lateral sulcus) superiorly and the inferior temporal sulcus inferiorly.

Brodmann area 21 shown in green on lateral surface of left cerebral hemisphere.

Function

The exact functions of Brodmann area 21 are not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in auditory processing and language comprehension. It is also involved in the processing of complex auditory information, such as music and speech.

Clinical significance

Alterations in Brodmann area 21 have been associated with several neurological and psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, autism, and Alzheimer's disease. For example, post-mortem studies have found reduced neuron density in this area in individuals with schizophrenia.

See also

• Brodmann area
• List of regions in the human brain
• Cytoarchitecture

External links

• Brodmann area 21 at BrainInfo