Brain atrophy during aging: a quantitative study with computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Brain atrophy is a common aging process.
• Quantitative measurement of brain volume is crucial for understanding neurological changes.
• Computed tomography (CT) offers a non-invasive method for brain volume assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively measure brain atrophy in normal individuals using CT.
• To establish a normal range for brain volume and identify indicators of atrophy.
• To investigate the relationship between age and brain volume.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative analysis of brain volume in 228 normal individuals using CT scans.
• Calculation of the Craniocerebral Index (CCI) based on pixel counts of brain, bone, and cerebrospinal fluid.
• Development of the Brain Volume Index (BVI) as an indicator of brain atrophy, normalized against a standard adult CCI.

Main Results:

• A stable Craniocerebral Index (CCI) of 92 +/- 3 was observed in adults aged 20-49.
• The Brain Volume Index (BVI) was slightly lower in children (97 +/- 5) and teenagers (96 +/- 3).
• A significant decrease in BVI was observed after age 50, with individuals in their 80s showing an average BVI of 89 +/- 6.

Conclusions:

• The Brain Volume Index (BVI) effectively indicates age-related brain atrophy.
• Brain volume significantly decreases with advancing age, particularly after 50 years.
• CT-based quantitative analysis provides a reliable method for assessing brain atrophy and its correlation with aging.