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[A case of posterior choroidal artery infarction]
I Takeuchi1, M Takagi, S Yamagata
1Department of Neurology, Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital.
Rinsho Shinkeigaku = Clinical Neurology
|October 1, 1992
Summary
Posterior choroidal artery infarction, though rare, can now be diagnosed more easily with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This imaging technique clearly visualizes affected brain areas, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Vascular Neurology
Background:
- The posterior choroidal artery (PCA) territory, supplying the lateral geniculate body and thalamus, is an uncommon site for infarction.
- Diagnosis of PCA infarction can be challenging due to overlapping vascular supply and rarity.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old male presented with left homonymous hemianopsia and hemiparesis, symptoms not immediately indicative of PCA infarction.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) successfully identified infarction in the lateral geniculate body, posterior thalamus, and caudate nucleus.
- Cerebral angiography revealed an occlusion in the right posterior cerebral artery (P2) with a patent right anterior choroidal artery.
Findings:
- The case was diagnosed as a posterolateral choroidal artery infarction, distinguished from anterior choroidal artery infarction via MRI.
- MRI visualization confirmed infarction in the lateral geniculate body, posterior thalamus, and caudate nucleus.
- Despite anatomical overlap with the anterior choroidal artery supply, posterolateral choroidal artery infarctions are considered rare.
Implications:
- Advanced MRI techniques enhance the visualization and diagnosis of rare posterior choroidal artery infarctions.
- Increased diagnostic accuracy for PCA territory infarcts is expected with wider MRI utilization.
- This case highlights the importance of MRI in diagnosing subtle yet significant cerebrovascular events.