Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum

Agenesis of the corpus callosum is a rare birth defect in which the corpus callosum is either partially or completely absent. The disease occurs in the fetus anywhere between the end of the first trimester and the beginning of the second trimester. The disease is caused by an extra chromosome 18 in some or in all of the cells of the fetus. Problems caused by a complete agenesis of the corpus callosum include sever retardation, violent seizures, low set ears, kidney problems, small eyes, wide set eyes, small lower jaw, clenched hands, congenital heart defects, and spasms. Where the problem caused by a partial agenesis of the corpus callosum is the ability to use both hemispheres of the brain independently. The ranges of abilities associated with the use of both hemispheres independently include calendar calculating, artistic abilities, lightning calculating and mathematical ability, musical, mechanical abilities, and spatial skills. Other even more rare abilities include visual measurements, map memorizing, and the appreciation of passing time without the use of a clock. Unfortunately there is no cure as to date for this terrible disease, although scientists and researchers are working very hard in order to come up with a solution which will cure individuals with the disease. Key terms agenesis of the corpus callosum, corpus callosum, trisomy 18, chromosome number 18, long arm of chromosome 18, “p-minus”, hernia, cerebral cortex, congenital heart defects, hemispheres of the brain, fetal MRI, genes, von Economo neurons, structural magnetic resonance imaging, functional magnetic resonance imaging, structural MRI, functional MRI, eye-tracking, and psychophysiology studies.