2008 – Agenesis Of Corpus Callosum And Psychosis - Review And Case Description

Abstract

Introduction

Agenesis of the corpus callosum is a congenital anomaly consisting of a failure in the development of the transverse fibers of white matter that connect the two cerebral hemispheres. It may be partial or complete and is often associated with learning disabilities and epilepsy. More recently, a link was established between agenesis of the corpus callosum and several neuropsychiatric disorders, including psychotic phenomena.

Methods

Case report and literature review using PUBMED.

Results and conclusion

The authors describe the case of a 43 year old patient with no previous psychiatric history that presented with behavioral problems and persecutory delusions. CT scan and MRI showed partial agenesis of the corpus callosum. Neuropsychological investigation revealed mild mental retardation. EEG was normal. The literature review allowed the authors to conclude that, although there are only a few cases reported, there is an established connection between agenesis of the corpus callosum and the onset of psychotic symptoms. This connection can be explained by the fact that corpus callosum is an important structure not only in allowing communication but also in regulating the activity established between the two hemispheres. In this case, a regulation loss could predispose to psychosis.