Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Arcuate fasciculus
Introduction
Overview
Overview
The arcuate fasciculus (Latin, curved bundle) is the neural pathway connecting the posterior part of the temporoparietal junction with the frontal cortex in the brain and is now considered as part of the Superior longitudinal fasciculus.
Function
Function
In the cerebral hemisphere specialised for language, this pathway is thought to connect Broca’s area to Wernicke’s area.
It is thought to connect areas of the brain involved in the generation and understanding of language.
Pathology
Pathology
Damage to this pathway can cause a form of aphasia known as conduction aphasia, where auditory comprehension and speech articulation are preserved, but people find it difficult to repeat heard speech.