Kelsey had a CT scan that showed a tumor in the right frontal cortex. Which of the following behavioral symptoms most likely prompted the scan to take place? a. difficulty comprehending language b. difficulty producing language c. motor skill deficits in the left side of her body d. sensory deficits in the right side of her body
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: c. motor skill deficits in the left side of her body
Explanation (300 words):
The frontal cortex, particularly the primary motor cortex located in the precentral gyrus of the frontal lobe, is responsible for controlling voluntary motor movements. The brain is organized contralaterally, meaning that the right hemisphere of the brain controls the left side of the body, and vice versa. Therefore, a tumor in the right frontal cortex would most likely impact motor function on the left side of the body.
Motor deficits, such as weakness, poor coordination, or paralysis in the left arm, leg, or face, are strong indicators of damage or abnormality in the motor regions of the right frontal lobe. When a patient presents with these symptoms, a physician might order a CT scan or MRI to identify structural causes like tumors, strokes, or traumatic injury.
Let’s look at why the other options are incorrect:
- a. Difficulty comprehending language typically indicates damage to Wernicke’s area, which is in the left temporal/parietal lobe, not the right frontal cortex.
- b. Difficulty producing language suggests damage to Broca’s area, located in the left frontal lobe, again not the right side.
- d. Sensory deficits in the right side of the body would more likely result from damage to the left parietal lobe, which contains the primary somatosensory cortex.
In summary, the most likely behavioral symptom that led to Kelsey’s CT scan revealing a right frontal cortex tumor is motor skill deficits on the left side of her body. This is because the right motor cortex controls the left side, and frontal lobe tumors often manifest as impairments in voluntary movement and coordination.