What type of stroke is characterized by small infarcts deep in the brain?

The type of stroke characterized by small infarcts deep in the brain is known as a lacunar stroke. Lacunar strokes result from the occlusion of small penetrating arteries that provide blood to the brain's subcortical structures, such as the basal ganglia and thalamus. These small infarcts typically occur due to chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, which can lead to lipohyalinosis—degeneration of the small arteries.

Lacunar strokes are distinguished from other types of strokes, such as embolic or thrombotic strokes, which involve larger vessels and are often associated with more widespread brain damage. Subarachnoid hemorrhages, on the other hand, involve bleeding in the space surrounding the brain rather than the formation of infarcts. Understanding these distinctions is critical for effective diagnosis and rehabilitation strategies in stroke care.