The spelling of "frontal pole" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word begins with the "f" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /f/. Next, it moves to the "r" sound, which is written as /r/. Then it continues to the "uh" vowel sound as in the word "put", written as /ʌ/. Finally, it ends with the "nt" sound, represented as /nt/, followed by the "l" sound, written as /l/. Putting these sounds together, the three-syllable word is pronounced as /frʌntəl poʊl/.
The term "frontal pole" refers to a specific region within the brain's frontal lobe. The frontal lobe is located at the anterior (front) part of the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for higher cognitive functions, decision-making, personality, and social behavior. At the extreme front of the frontal lobe lies the frontal pole, also known as the prefrontal pole or the rostral prefrontal cortex.
The frontal pole plays a crucial role in executive functions, which involve complex cognitive processes, such as problem-solving, planning, goal setting, and decision-making. It acts as a central hub that connects various brain regions involved in these higher cognitive functions. Additionally, the frontal pole is involved in working memory, attentional control, and emotional regulation, allowing individuals to modify their behaviors, inhibit impulsive actions, and adapt to changing circumstances.
Damage or dysfunction of the frontal pole can lead to various cognitive and behavioral deficits. Individuals with frontal pole lesions may experience difficulties in decision-making, showing impaired judgment, impulsivity, and poor planning capabilities. These individuals may also exhibit changes in personality, such as decreased empathy or inappropriate social behaviors. Understanding the precise functioning of the frontal pole is of great importance in fields such as neurology, psychiatry, and psychology, as it contributes significantly to human behavior, cognition, and overall mental well-being.
Polus frontalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "frontal pole" is derived from the combination of two terms: "frontal" and "pole".
The term "frontal" refers to the frontal lobe, which is the foremost part of the cerebral cortex located at the front of the brain. The frontal lobe is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and executive control.
The term "pole" is used in anatomy to describe a distinct, rounded end or extremity of an organ or structure. In this context, the "frontal pole" refers to the anterior or frontmost part of the frontal lobe.
Therefore, when combined, the term "frontal pole" specifically refers to the anterior region of the frontal lobe in the brain.