Diffusion tensor imaging in cerebral small vessel disease applications: opportunities and challenges

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) significantly contributes to global dementia and stroke incidence.
• CSVD is a leading cause of disability, often progressing silently with severe long-term consequences.
• Early diagnosis of CSVD is critical for mitigating stroke risk and improving patient prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) principles and methods for CSVD assessment.
• To analyze current DTI studies on CSVD and establish disease-lesion mapping.
• To explore CSVD pathogenesis, preclinical imaging features, and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Review of Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) principles and analysis techniques.
• Analysis of recent DTI research specifically investigating Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (CSVD).
• Examination of white matter microstructural damage in relation to CSVD pathology.

Main Results:

• DTI reveals microstructural damage in cerebral white matter associated with CSVD.
• Established disease-lesion mapping provides insights into pathogenic mechanisms.
• Identified preclinical imaging features aid in early detection.

Conclusions:

• DTI is a vital neuroimaging tool for the early diagnosis and precise treatment of CSVD.
• Understanding DTI-based disease-lesion mapping enhances knowledge of CSVD pathogenesis.
• This review provides a comprehensive imaging basis for future CSVD research and clinical practice.