Intracranial Atherosclerosis and Cerebral Atrophy
Author Information
Author(s): Erbay S, Han R, Aftab M, Zou Kelly H, Polak JF, Bhadelia Rafeeque A
Primary Institution: Tufts-New England Medical Center
Hypothesis
The presence of intra-cranial atherosclerosis can be an independent risk factor for cerebral atrophy.
Conclusion
High intracranial atherosclerosis is associated with central atrophy, independent of age.
Supporting Evidence
- 71% of patients had high intracranial atherosclerosis.
- Older patients had higher prevalence of hypertension and diabetes.
- High calcium scores correlated with central atrophy after age adjustment.
Takeaway
This study found that having calcium buildup in brain arteries can lead to brain shrinkage, even if you're older.
Methodology
Retrospective study of 65 patients with head CT and MRI to evaluate the relationship between intracranial atherosclerosis and brain atrophy.
Limitations
The study lacks data on the cognitive status of patients and may not generalize to all populations.
Participant Demographics
65 patients, mean age 64.6 years, 52% male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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