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Inferior temporal gyrus

The Inferior Temporal Gyrus (ITG) is a key structure located on the lateral surface of the temporal lobe, extending along its inferior aspect. It is involved in higher-order visual processing and object recognition, forming a critical part of the ventral visual stream, often referred to as the "what pathway." The ITG is bordered superiorly by the middle temporal gyrus and is separated from it by the inferior temporal sulcus. Inferiorly, it is delineated from the occipitotemporal (fusiform) gyrus by the occipitotemporal sulcus. The gyrus is vital for visual perception, memory, and complex cognitive functions, with dysfunction linked to several neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.

Synonyms

  • ITG

  • Gyrus temporalis inferior

  • Inferior temporal convolution

Arterial Supply

  • Primarily supplied by the inferior temporal branches of the middle cerebral artery (MCA).

  • Additional supply from the posterior cerebral artery (PCA), especially to the posterior portion of the gyrus.

Venous Drainage

  • Drained mainly by the middle cerebral vein and the inferior anastomotic vein (vein of Labbé).

  • Venous drainage ultimately converges into the superficial and deep venous systems of the brain.

Function

  • Visual object recognition and complex visual processing.

  • Essential for face recognition and interpretation of complex shapes.

  • Involved in visual memory and the identification of objects ("what pathway").

  • Plays a role in semantic processing and higher-level cognitive functions.

MRI Appearance

  • T1-weighted images: The ITG appears as an intermediate signal intensity gray matter band, similar to other cortical regions.

  • T2-weighted images: Demonstrates hyperintense (brighter) cortical ribbon compared to underlying white matter.

  • FLAIR images: The ITG maintains a similar appearance to T2, but periventricular and cortical lesions (such as gliosis or edema) are more conspicuous.

CT Appearance

  • The ITG is visualized as part of the cortical mantle in the inferior aspect of the temporal lobe.

  • Normal CT: ITG appears isodense to other cortical regions; gray-white matter differentiation is best appreciated in the acute phase of imaging.

  • Pathology (e.g., infarct, mass, edema) will alter the typical density or contour.

MRI images

Inferior temporal gyrus mri 3t axial image

MRI images

Inferior temporal gyrus mri 3t sagittal image

CT image

Inferior temporal gyrus CT axial anatomy image -img-00001-00001