Incomplete lacunar infarction (Type Ib lacunes)

The aetiopathogenesis of small, deep (lacunar) infarcts remains controversial. The view that they are caused by occlusive intrinsic small vessel disease is widely held, but is based on only a small number of detailed pathology studies. We describe and illustrate a variant of small, microvessel-associated basal ganglia lesion, the histopathological features of which are distinct from those of classical Types I, II and III lacunes. Their appearances suggest a state of incomplete infarction. The pathogenetic significance of such lesions is discussed, in particular the role of mechanisms causing temporary or only moderately severe ischaemia.