HealthAugust 15, 2026

orbitofrontal

OR-bih-toh-FRUN-tuhl

Definition

Relating to the region of the prefrontal cortex in the brain that is located directly above the eye sockets, involved in sensory processing and decision-making.

Etymology

The word is a compound of 'orbita' (Latin for track, eye socket) and 'frontalis' (Latin for relating to the forehead), describing its anatomical position within the frontal lobe of the brain.

In the news

The article identifies the orbitofrontal cortex as a specific brain structure that suffers early pathological damage in Alzheimer's disease, making it a critical area for early diagnostic testing.

A 10-minute test may detect Alzheimer’s up to 15 years before symptoms

Read the full article ↗

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