cortical spreading depression
A wave of neuronal and glial depolarization that propagates across cortical tissue, often triggering neuroinflammatory responses.
Full Definition
Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is a slowly propagating wave of neuronal and glial depolarization that moves across the cerebral cortex at 2-5 mm/minute. Originally described in migraine pathophysiology, CSD causes temporary suppression of neural activity followed by hyperexcitability. The wave is associated with dramatic changes in ion concentrations, neurotransmitter release, and blood flow. In neuroimmunology, CSD is significant because it can trigger microglial activation, blood-brain barrier opening, and sterile inflammation. CSD has been implicated in various neurological conditions beyond migraine, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and epilepsy.
Usage
Usage note: Always include 'cortical' to distinguish from other forms of spreading depression.
In Context
- "Cortical spreading depression triggered microglial activation and cytokine release in the experimental model." — Neuroscience research paper
- "The patient's symptoms were consistent with cortical spreading depression followed by neurogenic inflammation." — Clinical case study