Temporal Neocortex [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Temporal Neocortex ======

===== 1. Definition =====
- The **temporal [[neocortex]]** consists of the lateral and superior parts of the temporal lobe.
- It is a **six-layered (neocortical) structure**, distinct from the three-layered hippocampus.

===== 2. Main Anatomical Regions =====

^ Region ^ Main Function ^
| **Superior Temporal Gyrus** | Auditory processing, speech perception |
| **Middle Temporal Gyrus** | Language comprehension, semantic memory |
| **Inferior Temporal Gyrus** | Visual object recognition |
| **Temporal Pole** | Social and emotional processing |
| **Fusiform Gyrus** | Face and complex object recognition |

===== 3. Functions =====
- **Auditory processing** (sound and language).
- **Language comprehension** (especially left hemisphere).
- **Semantic memory** (facts, general knowledge).
- **Visual processing** (object recognition).
- **Social and emotional cognition**.

===== 4. Clinical Relevance =====
- **Epilepsy**: Temporal neocortical seizures affecting speech and memory.
- **Tumors and lesions**: Risk of language and memory deficits.
- **Neurosurgery**: Need to balance seizure control and functional preservation.
- **Neurodegenerative disorders**: Atrophy associated with cognitive decline.

===== Summary =====
The **temporal neocortex** plays crucial roles in **language**, **auditory processing**, **memory**, and **social cognition**, with major clinical relevance in epilepsy and neurological disorders.