Which of the following is a characteristic of an MCA stroke?

A characteristic of an MCA (Middle Cerebral Artery) stroke includes aphasia and contralateral motor loss, making this the correct answer. The MCA supplies blood to a significant portion of the lateral aspect of the cerebral hemisphere, including regions responsible for language and motor control of the face and arms. When an MCA stroke occurs, it often impacts these centers, leading to motor deficits specifically affecting the arm and face on the side of the body opposite to the stroke (contralateral).

Additionally, aphasia can result if the dominant hemisphere, typically the left hemisphere for right-handed individuals, is affected by the stroke. Observing both aphasia and motor loss together provides a hallmark of MCA strokes, as these deficits commonly present due to the artery's vascular territory.

In contrast, other options pertain to characteristics that are not typically associated with MCA strokes. For instance, contralateral sensory loss affecting legs more than arms is indicative of an anterior circulation stroke, particularly involving the anterior cerebral artery. Homonymous hemianopia generally suggests a more posterior circulation stroke, such as one involving the posterior cerebral artery, rather than the MCA. Lastly, dysphagia and vertigo may suggest brainstem involvement or a posterior circulation stroke rather than direct effects of an