Auditory Cortex
Pronunciation: AW-dih-tor-ee KOR-teks
The region of the cerebral cortex, located in the temporal lobe (Heschl's gyri), responsible for the higher-order processing of auditory information, referenced in audiological diagnostics when discussing central auditory function.
Full Definition
The auditory cortex, situated primarily in the superior temporal plane of each hemisphere (Heschl's gyri), is the highest level of the auditory pathway and is responsible for conscious sound perception, pitch discrimination, and complex auditory pattern recognition. In the context of audiological diagnostics, the auditory cortex is relevant when assessing cortical auditory evoked potentials (e.g., the P1-N1-P2 complex), auditory processing disorders, and central auditory pathway integrity. Editors should note that 'auditory cortex' is not hyphenated, is lowercase (unless beginning a sentence), and must not be conflated with 'auditory cortical response,' which refers to a specific electrophysiological test outcome. The adjective form is 'cortical.'
Usage
Usage note: Lowercase. The adjective form is 'cortical.' Do not confuse 'auditory cortex' (anatomy) with 'cortical auditory evoked potential' (test procedure).
In Context
- "Cortical auditory evoked potential testing was used to assess auditory cortex maturation in the implanted toddler." — Cochlear implant outcome report
- "Do not capitalise 'auditory cortex' except at the start of a sentence; it is a common noun in anatomical usage." — Editorial style note