Anterior spinal artery syndrome

Anterior Spinal Artery Syndrome

Anterior spinal artery syndrome (pronounced: an-TEER-ee-or SPY-nuhl AR-ter-ee sin-drome) is a medical condition that results from the obstruction of blood flow in the anterior spinal artery, which supplies the anterior two-thirds of the spinal cord. This syndrome is often associated with a sudden onset of pain followed by weakness and loss of temperature sensation below the level of the lesion.

Etymology

The term "anterior spinal artery syndrome" is derived from the Latin words "anterior" (meaning front), "spinalis" (pertaining to the spine), "arteria" (artery), and the Greek word "syndromos" (running together).

Symptoms

The symptoms of anterior spinal artery syndrome can vary depending on the location and extent of the obstruction. Common symptoms include:

• Weakness or paralysis below the level of the lesion
• Loss of pain and temperature sensation below the level of the lesion
• Preservation of touch, vibration, and position sense

Causes

Anterior spinal artery syndrome can be caused by a variety of conditions that can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the anterior spinal artery. These include:

• Aortic dissection
• Atherosclerosis
• Spinal cord injury
• Infection
• Surgery

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of anterior spinal artery syndrome is typically made based on the patient's symptoms and medical history, along with imaging studies such as MRI or CT scan.

Treatment

Treatment for anterior spinal artery syndrome is aimed at addressing the underlying cause of the decreased blood flow. This may include medications to improve blood flow, surgery to remove the obstruction, or other treatments as appropriate.

See also

• Posterior spinal artery syndrome
• Spinal cord ischemia
• Spinal stroke

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Anterior spinal artery syndrome
• Wikipedia's article - Anterior spinal artery syndrome

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