Glossary terms - L

Lacunar stroke/ lacunar infarct

A small stroke affecting an area of tissue less than one centimetre in diameter.

LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein)

The source of waxy plaque on the artery walls. LDL is usually called bad cholesterol.

Left hemisphere

The brain has two sides to it, known as the left hemisphere and right hemisphere, each controlling different functions. Amongst other things, the left side controls speech and writing.

Lethargy

Lethargy is a state of sluggishness, drowsy dullness or apathy.

Lipoproteins

Cholesterol travels though the blood through different compounds called lipoproteins, a combination of fat and protein.

Lumbar Puncture

A procedure whereby some of the spinal fluid is removed by the insertion of a needle into the spine, for diagnostic testing.