1. Acta Neuropathol Suppl. 1983;8:81-8.

Disturbances of the blood-brain barrier in cerebrovascular disorders.

Klatzo I.

The disturbances of the BBB in cerebrovascular disorders may affect adversely an
underlying basic pathological condition. Breakdown of the barrier associated with
extravasation of serum proteins leads to development of vasogenic edema in the
brain tissue. An abnormal passage of pharmacologically active substances, such as
biogenic amines, may significantly affect cerebral blood flow and metabolism and
activate neurons equipped with receptors for these substances. Also, a barrier
dysfunction related to faulty out-transport of metabolites may contribute to
edema and tissue damage. In cerebral ischemia, following release of arterial
occlusion there can be two separate openings of the barrier: the first -
occurring promptly after recirculation and related to ensuing reactive hyperemia,
the second - after some delay and related to pathological changes in the brain
tissue. In some circumstances, such as epileptic seizures, both "hemodynamic" and
"tissue" factors may be operative at the same time. The selective features of BBB
changes are related to multiplicity of barrier systems residing in cerebral
endothelium.

<So, are the "barrier systems" in the SN particularly vulnerable?>

These selective features are demonstrable during development and
during reversibility of postichemic barrier disturbances. Intermittent openings
of the barrier observed in chronic hypertension may lead to accumulation of
extravasated serum proteins and be responsible for frequently observed edematous
changes in this condition.

PMID: 6575567 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


My mother was preclampsic and had very high BP while carrying me. I was also born with rickets so D was a factor too.