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Association between Intracerebral Artery Stenosis and Cortical Infarcts, Lacunes, White Matter Hyperintensities and Brain Atrophy: Results from a Population-Based Study

  • 0Department of Radiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway, livhegejohnsen@gmail.com.
Cerebrovascular Diseases Extra +

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October 13, 2025

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October 13, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS) is linked to more cortical infarcts and lacunes, particularly in the posterior circulation. This study also found associations between ICAS and periventricular white matter hyperintensities and brain atrophy in a general population.

Area Of Science

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Epidemiology

Background

  • Intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS) is a major cause of ischemic stroke.
  • Previous research suggests ICAS is associated with various brain structural changes.
  • The relationship between ICAS and these changes in the general population requires further investigation.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the association between ICAS and cortical infarcts.
  • To examine the link between ICAS and lacunes, white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), and brain parenchymal fraction (BPF) in a general population.

Main Methods

  • A cross-sectional, population-based study included 1,842 participants aged 40-84 years.
  • Intracranial artery stenosis (≥50% narrowing) was assessed using 3D time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography.
  • Brain structural changes (infarcts, lacunes, WMHs, BPF) were evaluated using various MRI sequences.

Main Results

  • Participants with ICAS showed significantly higher rates of cortical infarcts and lacunes compared to those without ICAS.
  • Multivariable analysis confirmed independent associations between ICAS and cortical infarcts, lacunes (especially in posterior circulation), moderate-to-severe periventricular WMHs, and lower BPF.
  • No significant association was found between ICAS and deep WMHs or WMH volumes.

Conclusions

  • Intracranial artery stenosis is associated with cortical infarcts and lacunes, particularly in the posterior circulation.
  • The findings suggest a link between ICAS and periventricular white matter changes and brain atrophy.
  • These results highlight the broader cerebrovascular impact of ICAS beyond large vessel occlusion stroke.

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