Final answer:
A thrombotic CVA, also known as a thrombotic stroke, occurs when a blood clot forms inside a brain artery, blocking blood flow and leading to the death of brain tissue. This is a type of ischemic stroke, contrasting with hemorrhagic strokes where blood vessels rupture. Immediate medical care is critical to manage stroke symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Thrombotic Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)
A thrombotic CVA, or thrombotic stroke, is a type of ischemic stroke where a thrombus (blood clot) forms inside one of the brain's arteries, blocking blood flow and causing brain cells in the affected area to die due to lack of oxygen and nutrients. Thrombotic strokes are often caused by atherosclerosis, an accumulation of debris within the arterial walls, leading to narrowing and eventual blockage of the vessel. Another related condition that affects blood flow to the brain is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which resembles a stroke with symptoms that resolve within 24 hours due to the restoration of adequate blood flow.
The formation of a blood clot is typically a result of damage to the endothelial lining of the blood vessel, which can be due to various risk factors including thrombocytosis (excessive platelets), venous stasis (stationary blood flow), or thrombophilia (a tendency to form clots). It is critical to seek immediate medical attention if stroke symptoms are present, as timely treatment is crucial for the best possible outcome.