Cerebral microbleeds: hearing through the silence-a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are unexpected findings on brain imaging (CT/MRI).
• Initially presumed to be hemosiderin-laden macrophages, histopathology reveals variable CMB structures.
• Understanding CMBs is crucial for assessing their clinical significance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key aspects of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs).
• To cover CMB definition, prevalence, incidence, and associated conditions.
• To discuss potential clinical actions and treatments indicated for CMBs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of major databases (PubMed, EMBASE, etc.).
• Keywords included "microbleeds-detection-damage", "silent bleeds", and "hemophilia".
• Review of retrieved article references for additional relevant studies.

Main Results:

• Published data predominantly from imaging literature, focusing on detection techniques.
• Studies explore CMB relationships with clinical conditions like stroke and intracranial hemorrhage.
• Implications for antithrombotic therapy are also addressed.

Conclusions:

• Non-radiologist clinicians must recognize the potential importance of CMB findings.
• CMBs are not always clinically silent and can have significant consequences.
• Further research will enhance understanding of CMB clinical implications.