Callosomarginal artery

The callosomarginal artery is a major cortical branch of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) that courses within the cingulate sulcus to supply key medial brain structures.

Origin and course

• The callosomarginal artery arises from the postcommunicating (A3) segment of the ACA near the genu of the corpus callosum. From there, it runs superiorly and posteriorly in or along the cingulate sulcus, parallel to the pericallosal artery.

• If absent or hypoplastic, its territory is supplied by the pericallosal artery.

Vascular Territory

The callosomarginal artery supplies the medial brain structures, including:

• Paracentral lobule (motor and sensory representations of the contralateral lower limb).

• Cingulate gyrus (limbic cortex).

• Medial frontal and anterior parietal cortices.

Clinical Significance

• ACA Stroke: Occlusion leads to contralateral leg and foot weakness and sensory loss due to paracentral lobule ischemia.

• Upper Body Sparing: The face and upper limbs remain unaffected because they are perfused by the middle cerebral artery (MCA).

• Behavioural Effects: Ischemia extending into the medial frontal cortex may cause executive dysfunction or loss of initiative.