1. Anatomy:
– The MCA is a terminal branch of the internal carotid artery.
– It supplies many deep brain structures, the majority of the lateral surface of the cerebral hemispheres, and the temporal pole.
– The MCA travels from the base of the brain through the lateral sulcus (Sylvian fissure) before terminating on the lateral surface of the brain.
– It is divided into four segments (M1-M4), which give rise to a total of 10 branches.
2. Branches and Supply:
Central branches:
– Supply deep brain structures like the anterior commissure, internal capsule, caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus.
Cortical branches:
Supply various cortical areas:
– Frontal lobe: Lateral aspect of the orbital surface, opercular surfaces, and inferior and middle frontal gyri.
– Parietal lobe: Superior and inferior parietal lobules.
– Temporal lobe: Superior part of the lateral surface.
The MCA plays a crucial role in motor and sensory functions, language, and cognition.
3. Clinical Implications:
– A stroke affecting the MCA can cause:
– Weakness or numbness on one side of the face, arm, or leg.
– Facial droop on one side.
– Other symptoms like vision changes, slurred speech, and confusion.
References:
(1) Middle cerebral artery: Anatomy, branches, supply | Kenhub. https://www.kenhub.com/en/library/anatomy/middle-cerebral-artery.
(2) MCA Stroke: Symptoms, Causes, Complications, and Recovery – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/stroke/mca-stroke.
(3) Anatomy of the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/middle-cerebral-artery-3146149.
(4) Cerebrovascular Accident: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/cerebrovascular-accident-7111533.
Verified by Dr. Petya Stefanova
