AB-PICA

Anterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (AICA)

Diagram of the cerebellar arteries, including the AICA.

The Anterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (AICA) is a crucial artery in the human brain that supplies blood to the cerebellum and parts of the brainstem. It is one of the three main arteries that provide blood to the cerebellum, the others being the Superior Cerebellar Artery (SCA) and the Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery (PICA).

Anatomy

The AICA typically arises from the basilar artery, which is a major blood vessel located at the base of the brain. The basilar artery itself is formed by the union of the two vertebral arteries.

Course

The AICA travels laterally from its origin on the basilar artery, passing over the pons and the cerebellopontine angle. It then courses around the brainstem to reach the anterior inferior portion of the cerebellum.

Branches

The AICA gives off several branches that supply the following structures:

• The anterior inferior portion of the cerebellum
• The flocculus, a small lobe of the cerebellum
• Parts of the pons and the medulla oblongata

Function

The primary function of the AICA is to supply oxygenated blood to the regions of the brain it serves. This includes parts of the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordinating voluntary movements, balance, and posture, as well as parts of the brainstem, which control vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.

Clinical Significance

Illustration showing the relationship of the AICA with other cerebellar arteries.

Occlusion or blockage of the AICA can lead to a type of stroke known as an AICA syndrome. Symptoms of AICA syndrome may include:

• Vertigo
• Hearing loss
• Facial paralysis
• Ataxia, or lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements

These symptoms occur due to the disruption of blood flow to the areas of the brain supplied by the AICA.

Related Pages

• Cerebellum
• Basilar artery
• Vertebral artery
• Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery
• Superior Cerebellar Artery