Question 6
A piece of thrombus has broken loose from a damaged mitral valve, and entered the carotid circulation. Which of the following areas might be affected if this embolus produces infarction of brain tissue? Indicate ALL correct answers.
a. Lateral parts of the frontal and parietal lobes
b. Lateral parts of the temporal lobe
c. Hypothalamus
d. Medial parts of the occipital lobe
e. Internal Capsule
f. Thalamus
Answer to Question 6
Correct Answer:
a. Lateral parts of the frontal and parietal lobes 
b. Lateral parts of the temporal lobe
e. Internal Capsule
Additional Information:
(c.) The Hypothalamus is supplied by branches of the two vertebral arteries, rather than by branches of the common carotid artery; it would therefore not have its blood flow reduced by an embolus in the carotid system.
(d.) The Medial parts of the occipital lobe are supplied by branches of the two vertebral arteries, rather than by branches of the common carotid artery; they would therefore not have their blood flow reduced by an embolus in the carotid system.
( f.) The Thalamus is supplied by branches of the two vertebral arteries, rather than by branches of the common carotid artery; it would therefore not have its blood flow reduced by an embolus in the carotid system.