Calcification of the Falx Cerebri: An Overview

What is the Falx Cerebri?

The falx cerebri is a sickle-shaped structure located in the midline of the brain. It separates the two cerebral hemispheres and contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Physiological Calcification

Calcification of the falx cerebri is a common finding in computed tomography (CT) scans. It is typically considered a physiological calcification, which means it occurs naturally as part of the aging process.

Physiological calcifications are usually incidental findings on CT scans and do not typically indicate any underlying pathology. However, they can sometimes be confused with other types of calcifications, such as those caused by tumors or bleeding.

Causes of Calcification

The exact cause of calcification of the falx cerebri is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be related to the accumulation of calcium salts in the connective tissue of the falx cerebri over time.

Factors that may contribute to calcification include:

• Age
• Trauma
• Hemorrhage
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease

Clinical Significance

Calcification of the falx cerebri is usually an incidental finding and does not typically have any clinical significance. However, in some cases, it can be associated with other medical conditions, such as:

• Falcine meningiomas: Tumors that arise from the falx cerebri
• Tuberculosis
• Syphilis

If calcification of the falx cerebri is accompanied by other symptoms or signs of an underlying medical condition, further evaluation may be necessary.

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