Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

Which artery primarily supplies the medial surfaces of the telencephalon?

1. Anterior cerebral artery

2. Middle cerebral artery

3. Posterior artery

4. Basilar artery

The correct answer is: Anterior cerebral artery

The anterior cerebral artery is the primary blood vessel responsible for supplying the medial surfaces of the telencephalon, particularly the frontal and parietal lobes. This artery branches from the internal carotid artery and travels along the longitudinal fissure, allowing it to adequately supply the medial aspects of these brain areas. The medial surfaces where the anterior cerebral artery provides blood flow are critical for motor control and sensory processing involving the legs and feet, reflecting the homunculus representation. The anterior cerebral artery also participates in connecting the left and right hemispheres through anterior communicating arteries, facilitating interhemispheric communication. Other arteries mentioned do not primarily supply the medial surfaces of the telencephalon. The middle cerebral artery, for instance, is primarily responsible for supplying the lateral surfaces of the cerebral hemispheres. The posterior artery mainly supplies the occipital lobe and parts of the temporal lobe, and the basilar artery is mainly involved in supplying the brainstem and the cerebellum.