Posterior Circulation Brain Infarction refers to a medical condition characterized by an interruption of blood flow to the posterior, or back, part of the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel in this region becomes blocked or narrowed, leading to the death of brain tissue due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. This condition primarily affects the structures supplied by the posterior circulation, including the cerebellum, brainstem, and occipital lobes.
Symptoms of posterior circulation brain infarction may vary depending on the specific area affected, but commonly include dizziness, vertigo, difficulty coordinating movements, slurred speech, double vision, and severe headache. In more severe cases, individuals may experience paralysis or loss of consciousness.
The most common causes of posterior circulation brain infarction are atherosclerosis, in which fatty plaques build up inside the blood vessels, and blood clots that develop elsewhere in the body and get lodged in the narrow arteries supplying the posterior brain. Other causes include emboli from the heart, vessel dissection, or vasculitis.
Prompt medical intervention is crucial to minimize the damage caused by posterior circulation brain infarction. Treatment often involves the administration of thrombolytic medications to dissolve blood clots, along with the management of risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes. In some cases, surgical interventions such as angioplasty or stent placement may be necessary to restore blood flow to the affected area. Rehabilitation and supportive care are also important to help individuals regain function and prevent further complications.
