Posterior cerebral artery

Posterior Cerebral Artery

The Posterior Cerebral Artery (PCA) is one of the two main arteries that supply blood to the brain. It originates from the basilar artery and is part of the Circle of Willis, a circular network of arteries that provides a redundant circulation to the brain.

Anatomy

The PCA begins at the junction of the two vertebral arteries, which form the basilar artery. It then travels towards the back of the brain, giving off several branches along its course. These branches supply blood to various parts of the brain, including the occipital lobe, the temporal lobe, and the thalamus.

Function

The main function of the PCA is to supply blood to the posterior parts of the brain. This includes the occipital lobe, which is responsible for vision, and the temporal lobe, which is involved in hearing, language, and memory.

Clinical significance

Blockage of the PCA can lead to a type of stroke known as a posterior cerebral artery stroke. Symptoms can include vision loss, difficulty reading or writing, and problems with memory and language. Treatment typically involves restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain.

See also

• Circle of Willis
• Basilar artery
• Vertebral artery
• Posterior cerebral artery stroke

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  Gray's Anatomy plate 517 showing the brain

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  Diagram of the Circle of Willis

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  Circle of Willis

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  Magnetic Resonance Angiography of the brain

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  Gray's Anatomy plate 518

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  Arteries beneath the brain