Researchgate

Calcification of the Falx Cerebri: A Clinical Enigma

Introduction

Calcification of the falx cerebri is a frequently encountered incidental finding on computed tomography (CT) scans. While typically regarded as a physiological phenomenon, recent research has shed light on its potential clinical implications.

Pathophysiology

The falx cerebri is a tough membrane that separates the two cerebral hemispheres. It contains blood vessels and nerves, and its calcification can occur due to a variety of factors, including aging, trauma, and certain medical conditions. Physiological calcification is usually characterized by the presence of thin, linear calcifications along the falx cerebri.

Clinical Significance

In rare cases, the falx cerebri can undergo ossification, a process in which the calcified tissue transforms into compact bone without marrow elements. This condition, known as ossified falx cerebri, has been associated with several neurological disorders, including: *

Increased risk of hemorrhage:

The hardened falx cerebri can impinge on the adjacent cerebral cortex, increasing the risk of blood vessel rupture and hemorrhage. *

Cognitive impairment:

Calcification or ossification of the falx cerebri can exert pressure on the frontal lobes of the brain, potentially affecting cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and executive function. *

Seizures:

The altered electrical activity in the brain caused by the presence of calcified or ossified falx cerebri can trigger seizures in susceptible individuals.

Radiopaedia