The amygdala is an almond-shaped group of nuclei in the front of the medial temporal lobe, just in front of the hippocampus and the tip of the temporal horn, beneath the uncus. It is made of basolateral, central and corticomedial groups. It detects threats and gives emotional meaning to experiences.
| Location | Anterior medial temporal lobe, deep to the uncus and in front of the hippocampus and temporal horn |
|---|---|
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| Connections |
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| Blood Supply | Anterior choroidal artery; Middle cerebral artery (perforating branches) |
Detects threats and emotionally important events, triggers fear responses and strengthens emotional memories.
Bilateral amygdala damage, as in the rare Urbach-Wiethe disease or after temporal surgery, reduces fear and recognition of fearful faces. Bilateral removal in animals causes Klüver-Bucy syndrome, with placidity, hyperorality and hypersexuality, also seen rarely in humans. Amygdala overactivity is linked to anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder, and seizures here often begin with a feeling of fear.
Placidity, hyperorality, hypersexuality and visual agnosia after bilateral medial temporal damage including the amygdala.
A condition linked to overactive amygdala responses to reminders of trauma.
Focal seizures with sudden fear, rising stomach sensation and autonomic changes.
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