Cortical spreading depression

Cortical Spreading Depression (kɔːrˈtɪkəl ˈsprɛdɪŋ dɪˈprɛʃən) is a wave of electrochemical changes that moves across the cortex of the brain. It is believed to be involved in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including migraine, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.

Etymology

The term "Cortical Spreading Depression" was first used in the mid-20th century. "Cortical" refers to the cortex, the outermost layer of the brain. "Spreading" refers to the way the wave of changes moves across the cortex. "Depression" in this context refers to a decrease in normal brain activity.

Mechanism

Cortical Spreading Depression is characterized by a wave of depolarization that moves across the cortex. This is followed by a period of hyperpolarization, during which the neurons in the affected area are less likely to fire. The wave of depolarization is thought to be caused by an influx of ions into the neurons, while the period of hyperpolarization is thought to be caused by a subsequent efflux of ions.

Clinical significance

Cortical Spreading Depression is believed to be involved in the pathophysiology of several neurological and psychiatric disorders. In migraine, it is thought to be the underlying mechanism of the aura that some people experience before the onset of headache. In stroke and traumatic brain injury, it is thought to contribute to the damage caused by these conditions.

Related terms

• Depolarization
• Hyperpolarization
• Cortex
• Migraine
• Stroke
• Traumatic brain injury

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Cortical spreading depression
• Wikipedia's article - Cortical spreading depression

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