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Involuntary laughter and inappropriate hilarity
M F Mendez1, T V Nakawatase, C V Brown
1Department of Neurology, University of California at Los Angeles, USA. mmendez@UCLA.edu
Summary
Laughter, a unique human behavior, has obscure disturbances. This study explores involuntary laughter, suggesting specific brain circuitry and treatment with mood-regulating medications.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Human Behavior
Background:
- Laughter is a complex human behavior with poorly understood neurological underpinnings.
- Disorders of laughter present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for neuropsychiatrists.
Observation:
- An unusual case of involuntary and unremitting laughter persisting for 20 years is presented.
- Literature review on laughter disorders and their potential neuroanatomical basis.
Findings:
- Laughter may play a crucial role in social communication, especially in processing incongruous information.
- Disorders of laughter implicate specific neuroanatomical circuits: anterior cingulate gyrus, caudal hypothalamus, temporal-amygdala structures, and pontomedullary center.
Implications:
- Understanding laughter's neurocircuitry can inform the diagnosis and treatment of related disorders.
- Antidepressant and antimanic agents show potential in managing pathological laughter.