Makindo Medical Notes"One small step for man, one large step for Makindo" |
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Related Subjects: |Brain Herniation syndromes |Haemorrhagic stroke |Traumatic Head/Brain Injury |Acute Hydrocephalus |Epidural Haematoma |Subdural haematoma |Basic Neuroscience |Medulla Oblongata |Midbrain |Pons |Caudate Nucleus |Putamen and Globus Pallidus |Cerebral Cortex |Internal Capsule |Cavernous sinus |Basal Ganglia
The brain contains ~1011 neurons and even more glial cells (outnumbering neurons 10β50Γ). 𧬠About 40% of the human genome contributes to brain development & function. β‘ Neurons rely on continuous ATP from oxidative phosphorylation β brain is highly metabolic.
CNS = neurons + glial cells. Both form the neurovascular unit, essential in stroke pathophysiology.
Neurons = βinformation processorsβ β receive input, integrate, and send output signals. Grey matter = soma clusters (cortex, nuclei, brainstem, cerebellum).
Key parts:
π Transport: - Anterograde β soma β terminal. - Retrograde β terminal β soma (used by rabies, tetanus).
Glia = βglueβ but vital support + barrier + repair functions:
π§ Synaptic plasticity (LTP/LTD) = basis of learning & memory.
Sudden interruption of cerebral blood flow β neuronal death.
π§ Three Zones Post-Stroke | |
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β οΈ Irreversible core | Necrosis from CaΒ²βΊ influx, osmotic failure. |
π‘ Penumbra | Salvageable if reperfused quickly. |
π’ Mild hypoperfusion | Viable but impaired; oxidative stress risk. |
β±οΈ Time is brain β reperfusion (thrombolysis/thrombectomy) saves the penumbra. MRI-DWI distinguishes core vs at-risk tissue.