Overview
Introduction
A focal infarct in the lateral medulla creates a distinctive bedside picture that instantly narrows the differential to a posterior‑circulation stroke.
A focal infarct in the lateral medulla creates a distinctive bedside picture that instantly narrows the differential to a posterior‑circulation stroke. Because the medulla houses cranial‑nerve nuclei, vestibular structures, spinothalamic pathways and sympathetic fibers, a single vascular occlusion can generate a "crossed" pattern of deficits. Recognising that pattern, ordering the right imaging, and moving the patient through the acute stroke algorithm before the window closes are the three steps that separate a timely, safe outcome from preventable morbidity.