Brodmann area 48

Brodmann area 48 (BA48), also known as the Inferior Frontal Gyrus, is a region of the brain located in the frontal lobe. It is part of the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in cognition and personality development.

Anatomy

BA48 is located in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, which is the lower part of the frontal lobe. It is bordered by Brodmann area 44 anteriorly, Brodmann area 45 superiorly, and Brodmann area 47 posteriorly.

Brodmann area 48 located in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex.

Function

The exact function of BA48 is not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in language processing, social cognition, and decision making. It is also associated with empathy and theory of mind, which is the ability to understand the mental states of others.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in BA48 have been linked to several neurological disorders, including schizophrenia, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also implicated in frontotemporal dementia, a condition characterized by progressive damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.

See also

• Brodmann area
• Frontal lobe
• Prefrontal cortex
• Inferior Frontal Gyrus