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Structural MRI in normal aging and Alzheimer's disease: white and black spots

Margherita Cavalieri1, Helena Schmidt, Reinhold Schmidt

  • 1Division of Special Neurology, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.

Neuro-Degenerative Diseases
|January 21, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

White matter changes and microbleeds are more prevalent and progress faster in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients than in healthy older adults. These changes impact AD progression and may be future treatment targets.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Geriatrics
  • Neuroimaging

Background:

  • White matter changes (WMC) and microbleeds (MBs) are frequently observed in elderly individuals.
  • These neuroimaging markers are also common in patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence, distribution, and progression of WMC and MBs in normal aging versus AD.
  • To evaluate the impact of WMC and MBs on the clinical progression of Alzheimer's disease.

Main Methods:

  • A concise literature review was conducted.

Main Results:

  • WMC and MBs are more frequent and advance more rapidly in AD patients compared to cognitively normal elderly individuals.
  • Approximately 25% of AD patients develop new MBs without intervention.
  • WMC and MBs significantly influence the clinical course of Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusions:

  • WMC and MBs show potential as therapeutic targets for clinical trials in Alzheimer's disease research.

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