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Journal of Medical Case Reports

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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Case report

Abnormal white matter tracts resembling pencil fibers involving prefrontal cortex (Brodmann area 47) in autism: a case report

Authors: Ezzat Hashemi, Jeanelle Ariza, Mirna Lechpammer, Stephen C. Noctor, Verónica Martínez-Cerdeño

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

Autism is not correlated with any neuropathological hallmark as the brain of autistic individuals lack defined lesions. However, previous investigations have reported cortical heterotopias and local distortion of the cytoarchitecture of the neocortex in some cases of autism.

Case presentation

Our patient was a 40-year-old white woman diagnosed at an early age with autism and mental retardation. Pencil fibers were present within the prefrontal cortex (Brodmann area 47) and its composition resembled that of the underlying white matter region. Pencil fibers encompassed most of the extent of the cortical grey matter and were populated by oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglial cells, but not by neurons.

Conclusions

Here we report a new cytoarchitectural abnormality that has not been previously described in autism. Future pathological examinations should keep in mind the potential presence of pencil fibers within the prefrontal cortex of cases with autism.

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Title: Abnormal white matter tracts resembling pencil fibers involving prefrontal cortex (Brodmann area 47) in autism: a case report
Authors: Ezzat Hashemi
Jeanelle Ariza
Mirna Lechpammer
Stephen C. Noctor
Verónica Martínez-Cerdeño
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-016-1020-6

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abnormal white matter tracts resembling pencil fibers involving prefrontal cortex (Brodmann area 47) in autism: a case report

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusions

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