Anterolateral central arteries

The anterolateral central arteries, also known as the lateral lenticulostriate arteries or anterolateral ganglionic branches, are a group of small perforating arteries arising principally from the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Together they form the lateral group of perforators supplying the deep or central core of the cerebral hemisphere and are distinguished from the anteromedial central arteries associated predominantly with the ACA–AComA complex (anterior cerebral and anterior communicating arteries).

Origin. course and vascular distribution

The anterolateral central arteries arise predominantly from the M1 (sphenoidal) segment of the MCA, although origins from the proximal M2 segments and around the MCA bifurcation may occur. They pass superiorly into the anterior perforated substance and then course deeply through the basal forebrain towards the basal ganglia and internal capsule. Their number, arrangement and vascular territories show considerable individual variation.

The principal structures supplied by the anterolateral central arteries include variable portions of the putamen, globus pallidus and caudate nucleus (head and body), together with the anterior limb, genu and proximal part of the posterior limb of the internal capsule. Supply may also extend into adjacent deep white matter and the corona radiata.

Clinical correlate

The anterolateral central arteries are small perforating end arteries with limited collateral supply. Their occlusion can therefore produce lacunar infarcts in the internal capsule and basal ganglia regions.

They are also susceptible to vascular damage associated with chronic hypertension, and rupture of small affected vessels may produce deep intracerebral haemorrhage.

Don't confuse the terminologies

Some texts refer to the anterolateral central arteries of the MCA as the lateral lenticulostriate arteries, while the anteromedial central arteries of the ACA as the medial lenticulostriate arteries.

Distinction between anterolateral and anteromedial central arteries

Thus, whereas the anteromedial central arteries arise principally from the ACA and AComA and supply medial and deep anterior structures, the anterolateral central arteries arise principally from the MCA and extend more laterally through the basal ganglia and internal capsule. The boundary between these perforator territories is not absolute, as substantial anatomical variation and overlap occur within the deep cerebral circulation.