Arterial vascularization of the base of the brain of Bradypus variegatus (Schinz, 1825)

Abstract

The blood supply to the brain has unique and highly relevant characteristics, which are associated with the sensitivity, specialty and importance of the nervous tissue. Among these characteristics, the presence of an arterial circuit located at the base of the brain stands out. This circuit has modifications in relation to the different groups of vertebrates. According to the morphological model, it can be classified into three types (type I, type II, and type III) and according to the phylogenetic model, it can be classified into three stages (initial, intermediate, and final). When analyzing a sample group of 11 adult animals of the species Bradypus variegatus, it was found that the irrigation of the brain of this mammal is supplied by the carotid system, rostrally, and vertebrobasilar system, caudally. It is classified as type II, according to the morphological classification, and intermediate, in relation to the phylogenetic development model.