Question 1
Which of the following signs and symptoms might persist after partial occlusion of the basilar artery? Indicate ALL correct answers.
a. Weakness or paralysis one arm and leg (hemiplegia)
b. Loss of touch sensation on the face
c. Weakness or paralysis of both arms and legs (quadriplegia)on only the left side
d. Double vision (diplopia)
e. Problems with coordinating fine movements and with gait
f. Problems understanding spoken or written language, accompanied by fluent speech
Answer to Question 1
Correct Answer:
a. Weakness or paralysis one arm and leg (hemiplegia)
b. Loss of touch sensation on the face
c. Weakness or paralysis of both arms and legs (quadriplegia)
d. Double vision (diplopia)
e. Problems with coordinating fine movements and with gait
Additional Information:
This type of aphasia almost always reflects damage to cortex that is supplied by cortical MCA branches. Note that the basilar artery supplies both sides of the brainstem, thus partial occlusion might affect either or both sides of the brainstem and produce hemiplegia or quadriplegia by affecting one or both of the pyramidal tracts.