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Cognitive functions in subjects with incidental cerebral hyperintensities
1Department of Neurology, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
European Neurology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Incidental cerebral hyperintensities (CH) on MRI scans showed no overall cognitive decline in healthy adults. However, posterior periventricular CH correlated with poorer performance on the Stroop test, suggesting initial impacts on attention and processing speed.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroimaging
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Incidental cerebral hyperintensities (CH) are common findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in neurologically normal individuals.
- The relationship between these incidental findings and cognitive function requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between incidental cerebral hyperintensities (CH) and cognitive performance in nondemented subjects.
- To compare MRI-derived lesion and atrophy scores with extensive cognitive assessments.
Main Methods:
- Utilized multivariate analysis to compare semiquantitative scores of MRI lesions and brain atrophy with cognitive test results.
- Included neurologically normal, nondemented subjects undergoing extensive cognitive examinations.
Main Results:
- No significant correlation was found between overall CH and cognitive function.
- Posterior periventricular hyperintensities were associated with reduced performance on the Stroop test.
- Age was a predominant factor in prefrontal functions, while brain atrophy correlated with declines in posterior and dorsolateral frontal functions.
Conclusions:
- Incidental CH may initially affect attention and processing speed, but not overall cognitive function, in healthy adults.
- Age and brain atrophy are significant factors influencing cognitive decline, particularly in specific brain regions.