Focal Lesion in Splenium of Corpus Callosum on FLAIR MRI: Common Findings in Aged Patients
1Dapartment of Medical Imaging, The Second Hospital, Shantou University Medical College; Shantou, China - rhwu@stu.edu.cn.
Abstract:
Focal high signal intensity in the splenium of the corpus callosum on fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) images is generally considered an abnormal MR finding. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of this finding in elderly patients and review the differentiation from other diseases with the similar findings. FLAIR images of 132 patients with suspect CNS disease were retrospectively reviewed. The changes in the splenium of corpus callosum, deep white matter lesions, periventricular matter lesions, infarcts, atrophy and age were analyzed, as well as history. Among the initial 132 patients, focal high signal intensity in the splenium was associated with aging, white matter changes, atrophy, and cognitive disorders. Focal high signal intensity in the splenium of the corpus callosum on FLAIR image is a common finding in elderly patients, especially in aged patients with cognitive disorders. The pathologic alterations were commonly described by the term of "leukoaraiosis". Knowledge of this finding and differentiation from other lesions focusing on the splenium of corpus callosum may help avoid unnecessary invasive diagnostic and therapeutic intervention.
Insights
Focal high signal intensity in the splenium of the corpus callosum is common in elderly patients, often linked to aging and cognitive issues. This finding, known as leukoaraiosis, can help differentiate from other conditions, avoiding unnecessary interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Focal high signal intensity in the splenium of the corpus callosum on FLAIR images is typically viewed as abnormal.
- The prevalence and significance of this finding in elderly populations require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of splenium signal intensity in elderly patients.
- To review differentiation of this finding from other pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of FLAIR images from 132 patients with suspected CNS disease.
- Analysis of splenium changes, white matter lesions, infarcts, atrophy, age, and patient history.
Main Results:
- Focal high signal intensity in the splenium was associated with aging, white matter changes, atrophy, and cognitive disorders.
- This finding is common in elderly patients, particularly those with cognitive impairment.
- Pathologic alterations are often termed 'leukoaraiosis'.
Conclusions:
- Focal high signal intensity in the splenium of the corpus callosum on FLAIR is a frequent finding in the elderly, especially with cognitive decline.
- Understanding this common finding aids in differentiating it from other lesions, potentially preventing unnecessary invasive procedures.
