Epidemiology of white-matter lesions
1Laboratory of Epidemiology, Demography, and Biometry, National Institute on Aging, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. LaunerL@nia.nih.gov
International Psychogeriatrics
|September 30, 2005
Abstract:
White-matter lesions (WML) detected on MRI may reflect different pathologies, but, in older persons, are thought to be mainly of ischemic origin. WML increase in prevalence with age. Several cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive, emotional, and physical function consequences of WML have been identified. These are reviewed briefly in this report.
Insights
White-matter lesions (WML) in older adults are often ischemic and increase with age. These brain changes are linked to various cardiovascular risk factors and impact cognitive, emotional, and physical functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Geriatric Medicine
- Vascular Neurology
Background:
- White-matter lesions (WML) on MRI scans are common in older individuals.
- While WML can stem from various causes, ischemic origins are predominant in the elderly population.
- The prevalence of WML escalates with advancing age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the identified cardiovascular risk factors associated with WML.
- To summarize the consequences of WML on cognitive, emotional, and physical functioning in older persons.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating white-matter lesions in older adults.
- Analysis of MRI findings related to WML pathology.
- Examination of associations between WML and cardiovascular risk factors.
- Assessment of functional outcomes linked to WML.
Main Results:
- WML are frequently observed in older individuals, with prevalence increasing with age.
- Ischemic processes are considered the primary cause of WML in this demographic.
- Established cardiovascular risk factors are linked to the presence and severity of WML.
- WML are associated with detrimental effects on cognitive, emotional, and physical health.
Conclusions:
- WML in older adults are a significant finding, predominantly linked to ischemic processes.
- Cardiovascular health plays a crucial role in the development and progression of WML.
- These lesions have demonstrable negative impacts on multiple domains of functioning in the elderly.
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