Intracranial arterial disorders refer to a group of medical conditions that affect the arteries inside the skull, causing abnormalities in blood flow to the brain. Arteries are essential blood vessels responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to various parts of the body, including the brain. However, when these intracranial arteries become diseased or damaged, it can lead to significant health complications.
Some common types of intracranial arterial disorders include cerebral aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and intracranial stenosis. Cerebral aneurysms are weakened areas of blood vessels that can balloon and potentially rupture, causing a potentially life-threatening hemorrhage. Arteriovenous malformations are abnormal tangles of blood vessels that disrupt the normal blood flow in the brain. Intracranial stenosis, on the other hand, is the narrowing of blood vessels due to the buildup of plaque or atherosclerosis, which restricts blood flow.
Symptoms of intracranial arterial disorders vary depending on the specific condition and location of the affected artery but can include severe headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, cognitive impairments, and focal neurological deficits. Diagnosis often involves imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or angiography, to visualize the arteries and identify any abnormalities.
Treatment options for intracranial arterial disorders may include medication to manage symptoms, surgical intervention to repair or remove the affected blood vessels, or endovascular procedures like coil embolization or stenting to redirect blood flow and prevent potential complications.
Given the potential seriousness and complexities associated with intracranial arterial disorders, timely diagnosis and appropriate medical management are crucial to prevent long-term neurological damage and improve patient
