Can posterior cerebral artery (PCA) occlusions cause ipsilateral weakness?

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Last updated: May 7, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Yes, posterior cerebral artery occlusions can cause ipsilateral weakness, particularly in cases of P1 occlusion, as evidenced by a study published in 2021 1. This is because the posterior cerebral artery supplies blood to various parts of the brain, including the thalamus, which can be affected by a P1 occlusion, leading to ipsilateral motor deficits. The study found that 63% of patients with P1 occlusion experienced hemiparesis, which is a significant proportion indicating that ipsilateral weakness can occur in posterior cerebral artery occlusions. Key points to consider include:

  • The posterior cerebral artery's vascular territory and its potential impact on motor function
  • The specific location of the occlusion, such as P1, and its association with ipsilateral weakness
  • The clinical presentation of patients with posterior cerebral artery occlusions, including the frequency of hemiparesis and other symptoms like hemi-/quadrantanopsia. Other studies, such as those published in 2020 2 and 2024 3, provide additional insights into the clinical outcomes and treatment of posterior cerebral artery occlusions, but the 2021 study 1 is the most relevant to the question of ipsilateral weakness. Older studies, like the one from 1979 4, and other recent studies, like the one from 2020 5, offer valuable information on the topic but do not directly address the specific question of ipsilateral weakness in the context of posterior cerebral artery occlusions as clearly as the 2021 study 1.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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