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Pathology of the arteries in the central nervous system with special reference to their dilatation: blood flow

H Masuda1, A Sugita, Y J Zhuang

  • 1Second Department of Pathology, Akita University School of Medicine, Japan. masuda@med.akita-u.ac.jp

Neuropathology : Official Journal of the Japanese Society of Neuropathology
|August 10, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Increased blood flow in central nervous system (CNS) arteries caused significant dilation and elongation. This suggests CNS arteries adapt to flow changes, challenging the notion of constant CNS circulation.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Vascular Biology
  • Cardiovascular Research

Background:

  • Central nervous system (CNS) arteries possess unique structural characteristics: thick internal elastic lamina (IEL), a complete Circle of Willis, and limited systemic collateral circulation.
  • These features have historically suggested a constant and stable blood flow within the CNS.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of altered blood flow on the arterial configuration of the CNS.
  • To understand how hemodynamic forces influence the morphology of CNS arteries.

Main Methods:

  • Experimental increase of vertebral and basilar artery blood flow in adult male Japanese white rabbits.
  • Two groups were established: simple bilateral common carotid artery ligation, and ligation combined with an arteriovenous fistula (AVF).
  • Cineangiography and histopathological analysis were used to assess arterial changes post-intervention.

Main Results:

  • Significant increases in blood flow were observed in both experimental groups.
  • Vertebral and basilar arteries exhibited remarkable dilation and elongation.
  • Histopathology revealed severe internal elastic lamina disruption and focal medial thinning, with preserved endothelium and no inflammation.

Conclusions:

  • The observed morphological changes indicate adaptive remodeling in response to increased blood flow.
  • These findings challenge the traditional view of constant CNS circulation and highlight the dynamic nature of its arterial tree.

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