Embryology of the anterior communicating artery complex: implications on possible adult variants

Surg Radiol Anat. 2022 May;44(5):737-748. doi: 10.1007/s00276-022-02928-5. Epub 2022 Mar 31.

Abstract

The anterior cerebral artery (ACA) and the anterior communicating artery (AComA) are important arteries of the telencephalon and are prominent location for cerebral aneurysms. Their embryological development is closely linked, and explains the possible variants seen in adults. In this paper, we present details related to the development of these two arteries, focusing on some variants such as the infra-optic course of the ACA, the unpaired ACA, and the persistent primitive olfactory artery.

Keywords: Anterior cerebral artery; Anterior communicating artery; Arterial embryology; Arterial variations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anterior Cerebral Artery*
  • Cerebral Angiography
  • Circle of Willis
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Aneurysm*