Lacunar infarction

Lacunar Infarction is a type of stroke that occurs when one of the small arteries supplying the deep structures of the brain becomes blocked. It is a subtype of ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke. The term "lacunar" infarction derives from the Latin word "lacuna" which means "gap" or "cavity".

Causes

The primary cause of lacunar infarction is lipohyalinosis, a condition that results from high blood pressure and aging. Other causes include diabetes, smoking, and hyperlipidemia.

Symptoms

The symptoms of lacunar infarction depend on the area of the brain that is affected. Common symptoms include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and loss of balance or coordination.

Diagnosis

Lacunar infarction is diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination and imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scan.

Treatment

Treatment for lacunar infarction is primarily aimed at preventing further strokes. This may involve medications to control blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and adopting a healthy diet.

Prognosis

The prognosis for lacunar infarction is generally better than for other types of stroke, as the infarcts tend to be smaller and cause less brain damage. However, individuals with lacunar infarction are at increased risk of future strokes.

See Also

• Stroke
• Ischemic Stroke
• Hypertension
• Diabetes