Insights into temporal lobe function and its relationship to the visual system

Abstract

The temporal lobe is involved in numerous functions including language, audition, vision, memory and emotion. This article will discuss the anatomy and function of the temporal lobe as well as the clinical presentation of temporal lobe deficits. Lesions within the temporal lobe may affect one or more of its functions. Optometrists are likely to encounter visual deficits associated with temporal lobe lesions. Understanding the clinical presentation of visual deficits associated with temporal lobe lesions as well as non-visual findings, may aid the practitioner in localization of visual defects to the temporal lobe.