The sudden death of some brain cells due to lack of oxygen when the blood flow to the brain is impaired by blockage or rupture of an artery to the brain. A CVA is also referred to as a stroke.

Reference: Medicinenet, Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR, https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2676 , June 28th, 2019