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Orbitofrontal syndrome

A neurobehavioral disorder that occurs when the orbitofrontal cortex, the area of the frontal lobes responsible for social behavior, impulse control, emotional regulation, and decision-making, is damaged. Lesions can be caused by traumatic brain injury, stroke, tumors, infections, or neurodegenerative diseases. Symptoms include disinhibition, impulsivity, inappropriate social or sexual behavior, emotional instability, poor assessment of the situation, and lack of criticality. Some patients experience irritability, aggression, or changes in eating behavior. Since the manifestations can resemble psychiatric disorders, neuroimaging and neuropsychological examination are often used for accurate diagnosis. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the underlying cause, applying behavioral strategies, structuring the environment, and medication-based correction of symptoms.