Lacunar Infarction Is Not Cerebral Ischemia

Lacunar infarction, also known as lacunar stroke, is often misunderstood as a form of cerebral ischemia or reduced blood supply to the brain. However, this is not an accurate classification. Some patients may describe a sensation of partial blockage in the blood vessels and interpret it as insufficient blood flow. However, according to the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11), there is no official diagnostic term that corresponds to this description.

What Is True Cerebral Ischemia?

True cerebral ischemia, more accurately referred to as posterior circulation ischemia, involves a significant reduction in blood flow to critical areas of the brain. This condition can lead to a range of neurological symptoms, including dizziness, vertigo, double vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and weakness in the limbs—particularly in both legs. Patients may also experience coordination problems, such as an inability to accurately touch their nose with their fingertip, a clinical sign known as dysmetria.

Understanding Lacunar Infarction

Lacunar infarction occurs when small, deep arteries in the brain become blocked, leading to localized areas of brain tissue damage or softening. These arteries typically supply regions such as the basal ganglia and white matter. The symptoms of lacunar infarction can be subtle and may include temporary weakness or numbness on one side of the body, occasional clumsiness in the hands, or mild speech disturbances.

Key Differences in Symptoms

While both conditions involve disruptions in brain function, lacunar infarction typically presents with milder symptoms compared to posterior circulation ischemia. Some individuals may even experience a lacunar infarction without noticeable symptoms, often discovering the event only through imaging studies like MRI or CT scans performed for unrelated reasons.

Conclusion

In summary, lacunar infarction is not a type of cerebral ischemia but rather a specific subtype of ischemic stroke caused by small vessel disease. Understanding the distinction between these conditions is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning. If you experience any neurological symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly for proper evaluation.