Lingual Gyrus

gyrus lingualis

The lingual gyrus, or medial occipitotemporal gyrus, lies on the medial and lower surface of the occipital lobe, below the calcarine sulcus. It is named for its tongue-like shape. Its upper lip forms the lower bank of the primary visual cortex, which handles the upper half of the opposite visual field.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Connections

Location	Medial and inferior surface of the occipital lobe, below the calcarine sulcus, continuous forwards with the parahippocampal gyrus
Parts	Lower bank of the primary visual cortex Visual association cortex
Connections	Lateral geniculate nucleus via the optic radiation Fusiform gyrus Parahippocampal gyrus
Blood Supply	Posterior cerebral artery (calcarine and posterior temporal branches)

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Processes the upper half of the opposite visual field and supports colour vision, visual memory and recognition of scenes.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Lesions of the lingual gyrus cause an upper quadrant visual field defect on the opposite side, and may also impair colour perception and recognition of places. It is supplied by the posterior cerebral artery, so it is often affected in posterior circulation strokes.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Superior Quadrantanopia

Loss of the upper quarter of the opposite visual field from damage to the lingual gyrus or Meyer loop.

Cerebral Achromatopsia

Loss of colour vision from ventral occipital damage including the lingual gyrus.

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