Brain, Meninges & CSF Anatomy
Corpus callosum
The corpus callosum is the large band of white matter connecting the brain's left and right halves.
In short: Corpus callosum
- Its absence (agenesis) can accompany encephalocele.
- It allows the two halves of the brain to communicate.
- It is the brain's largest white matter connection.
- Its development is examined on imaging.
What it is
It is the large band of white matter that connects the brain's left and right halves, allowing them to communicate. It is the brain's largest white matter structure.
Understanding Corpus callosum
Some children with encephalocele have partial or complete absence of the corpus callosum (agenesis), which is noted on imaging as an associated finding. Because it is the main bridge between the brain's halves, its development is part of the overall brain assessment, and its absence is one of several findings the team considers.
Why it matters
Understanding the corpus callosum helps families interpret findings like agenesis of the corpus callosum and see why the brain's connecting structures are part of the evaluation.
Common questions
What does the corpus callosum do?
Connects the brain's two halves.
Can it be absent?
Yes — agenesis can occur with encephalocele.
Is it white matter?
Yes — the brain's largest white matter structure.
Bottom line
The corpus callosum connects the brain's halves, and its absence can accompany encephalocele.
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