Blood Supply and Stroke Mechanisms

These flashcards cover essential concepts from the lecture regarding blood supply to the brain, mechanisms of stroke, risk factors, and anatomical structures involved.

What are the two primary systems of arteries that supply the brain?

The internal carotid and vertebrobasilar systems.

What procedure determines the presence of a brain blood supply deficiency?

Cerebral angiography.

What is the term for a focal loss of neurological function that resolves within 24 hours?

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA).

What causes ischemic stroke primarily?

Blood clots blocking arteries.

Which part of the brain is affected during a hemorrhagic stroke?

The area where bleeding occurs, typically affecting neurons directly.

What lifestyle factor increases the risk of stroke the most?

Hypertension.

What is the role of the Circle of Willis?

To provide collateral blood flow between the internal carotid and vertebral arteries.

How can cerebrovascular accidents be categorized?

Ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes.

What type of stroke is caused by atherosclerosis?

Thrombotic stroke.

What symptoms result from anterior cerebral infarction?

Contralateral spastic paralysis mainly affecting the leg.

What is a common risk factor for stroke associated with atrial fibrillation?

Embolic stroke.

What is the effect of significant hypotension on the brain?

It can cause a stroke due to reduced oxygen supply.

What condition is characterized by the weakening and breaking open of arteries in the brain?

Hemorrhagic stroke.

What brain structure is critical for maintaining blood vessel elasticity?

Endothelium, which produces nitric oxide.

How does a lacunar stroke differ from other strokes?

It occurs in small branches of large arteries.

What is an embolus in the context of a stroke?

A dislodged blood clot that travels to the brain.

What happens during the stroke recovery process involving cerebral arterioles?

They autoregulate blood flow in response to systemic pressure changes.

Which demographic shows a significant increase in stroke risk?

Older adults, particularly those over the age of 65.

Which arteries are associated with the Circle of Willis?

Anterior and posterior communicating arteries connecting the internal carotids and basilar artery.

What severe headache condition may lead to an increased risk of stroke?

Migraine.

What are the symptoms of middle cerebral infarction?

Contralateral paralysis of upper extremities and facial sensory loss.

What is the medical term for a stroke caused by rupture of an artery?

Hemorrhagic stroke.

What is the major sign of a hemorrhagic stroke?

A catastrophic headache.

What do abnormal homocysteine levels indicate regarding stroke risk?

They are linked to higher risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.

What condition causes paralysis of all voluntary movements except eye movements?

Locked-in syndrome.

How is an embolic stroke primarily initiated?

By the dislodgment of a clot formed in the heart.

Which artery supplies the temporal lobe and part of the lateral cortex?

Middle cerebral artery.

What type of blood supply issue does ischemia refer to?

Inadequate blood supply including oxygen and nutrients.

What is the relationship between atrial fibrillation and stroke?

Atrial fibrillation can lead to the formation of emboli, increasing stroke risk.

What are choroid plexuses responsible for in the brain?

Producing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).