corpus callosum splenium
Pronunciation: /ˈspliːniəm/
Posterior portion of the corpus callosum connecting the occipital and posterior temporal lobes bilaterally.
Full Definition
The splenium is the thick, rounded posterior portion of the corpus callosum that contains commissural fibers connecting the occipital and posterior temporal cortices of both hemispheres. This region is particularly susceptible to injury in conditions affecting white matter, including demyelinating diseases, toxic exposures, and ischemic events. Lesions in the splenium can cause disconnection syndromes and may be associated with specific clinical patterns. The splenium shows characteristic signal changes in various pathological conditions and serves as an important landmark in neuroimaging interpretation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from genu (anterior) and body (middle) portions of corpus callosum.
In Context
- "A focal lesion in the corpus callosum splenium showed restricted diffusion consistent with acute demyelination." — multiple sclerosis report
- "Symmetric T2 hyperintensity in the corpus callosum splenium suggested toxic-metabolic etiology." — encephalopathy workup