Neurophysiology and Neurology of the Face and Mimicry.

Abstract

In this review, neurophysiologiacal mechanisms of facial mimicry and clinical of mimics have been discussed. lnferior occipital cortex and lateral fusiform identity. They also have connections with superior temporal sulcus and amygdala. These structures are specifically activated dirung the imaging procedures such as Event Related Potentials (ERPs) in which demonstration of series of fotographs results in activation of lateral fusiform gyrus with 100-170 msec latancy and 200 msec or longer latancy in left amygdala. In addition to these, the right amygdala and superior temporal gyrus are also important to acknowledge facial mimics (motor emotional impressions). Classical facial motor theory does not explain the facial-emotional interactions and acknowledgement process, therefore holistic approaches, including effects of cerebral domiance and the knowledge of specific missions of the gyri and sulci are needed.