Primary auditory area volumetry among Sudanese using 3D MRI: A cross-sectional study and literature review

Abstract 1.1 Background: The primary auditory cortex (PAC) is the home for complex sound interpretation and noise perception. It is located in the Heschl gyrus, a region of the cerebral cortex located in the temporal lobes. Determining the volume of the auditory cortex is important in surgeries; for instance, it helps in determining the location of auditory-sensitive neurons and the anatomical conformations of the PAC. Our aim was to determine the primary auditory volumetry among Sudanese apparently healthy individuals in order to understand and deal with patients with various auditory diseases. 1.2 Methods: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Fedail Hospital. Imaging was done using Structured 3D MRI for healthy Sudanese subjects from January to March 2023. 1.3 Results: The study involved 91 participants aged 48.64 years and found that the right PAC volume was larger than in the left PAC. The mean difference in volume between the two PAC was also significant. No significant gender differences were found in the right PAC volume or left PAC volume. Age-related differences were found to be significant, with the 18-30 age group having the largest mean difference. Person correlation analyses revealed a significant negative correlation between age and right PAC volume and the difference in volume between PACs, suggesting decreased asymmetry as individuals age. However, age did not significantly correlate with total volume, suggesting a nuanced relationship with overall auditory area volume. 1.4 Conclusion: The study revealed significant interhemispheric inverse asymmetry towards the right side in Sudanese individuals, with no significant gender-specific asymmetry in the auditory cortex.