Visual area of coex is supplied by
**Core Concept**
The visual area of the cortex is responsible for processing visual information from the retina. It is located in the occipital lobe and is essential for interpreting visual stimuli. The visual cortex is divided into multiple areas, each processing different aspects of visual information.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The visual area of the cortex is primarily supplied by the posterior cerebral artery (PCA). The PCA arises from the basilar artery and supplies the occipital lobe, including the visual cortex. The visual cortex is also innervated by the optic radiations, which carry visual information from the lateral geniculate nucleus to the visual cortex. The optic radiations are formed by the association fibers of the optic tract and are responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the visual cortex.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the middle cerebral artery (MCA) primarily supplies the lateral surface of the brain, including the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes. While the MCA does supply some portions of the occipital lobe, it is not the primary supplier of the visual cortex.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) primarily supplies the medial surface of the brain, including the frontal and parietal lobes. The ACA does not supply the visual cortex.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the vertebral arteries primarily supply the brainstem and cerebellum. While the vertebral arteries do contribute to the formation of the basilar artery, which supplies the visual cortex, they are not the primary suppliers of the visual cortex.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the visual cortex is located in the occipital lobe and is primarily supplied by the posterior cerebral artery. This is a critical fact for neurologists and neurosurgeons to keep in mind when evaluating patients with visual disturbances or occipital lobe injuries.
**Correct Answer:** C. Posterior cerebral artery.