Biomarkers of cerebrovascular disease in dementia

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroimaging
• Gerontology

Background:

• Cerebrovascular disease is increasingly recognized as a major contributor to dementia development and progression.
• The understanding of dementia has shifted from distinct vascular or degenerative types to a spectrum of combined processes.
• Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits from vascular therapeutics and shunting in Alzheimer's disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine available imaging biomarkers for characterizing microvascular abnormalities in the aging brain.
• To focus on specific conditions including microvascular angiopathy, cerebral embolic disease, orthostatic hypotension, and Monro-Kellie homeostasis.
• To provide a comprehensive overview for clinicians and researchers in the field of dementia and cerebrovascular health.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on imaging biomarkers for cerebrovascular abnormalities.
• Analysis of studies investigating microvascular angiopathy, cerebral embolic disease, orthostatic hypotension, and Monro-Kellie homeostasis.
• Synthesis of findings related to the role of these abnormalities in dementia.

Main Results:

• Imaging biomarkers are crucial for identifying and characterizing microvascular changes associated with aging and dementia.
• Microvascular angiopathy, embolic disease, and orthostatic hypotension are key indicators of cerebrovascular involvement in dementia.
• Abnormalities in Monro-Kellie homeostasis may also play a role in the complex pathophysiology of dementia.

Conclusions:

• A spectrum of neurodegenerative and vascular processes underlies dementia, necessitating integrated diagnostic approaches.
• Imaging biomarkers offer valuable insights into microvascular contributions to dementia.
• Further research into these biomarkers can guide therapeutic strategies for dementia patients with cerebrovascular disease.