Overview
Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) accounts for 20% of ischemic strokes and is the most common cause of vascular cognitive impairment. Early identification of cSVD is critical for early intervention and improve clinical outcomes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may represent as a sensitive and robust tool to detect early changes in brain subtle structures and functions. The study is to investigate the comprehensive evaluation of brain structures and vascular functions by using advanced MRI technologies in early diagnosis and management of cSVD.
Description
Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) accounts for 20% of ischemic strokes and is the most common cause of vascular cognitive impairment. Early identification of cSVD is critical for early intervention and improve clinical outcomes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is sensitive to change in white matter structure and subtle vascular function alternation which correlates with cognition impairments in cSVD. MRI manifestation may also represent as useful surrogate marker. Development of advanced MRI technologies promotes their invaluable application in brain and vascular qualitative and quantitative assessment. The study is to investigate the comprehensive evaluation of brain structures and vascular functions by using advanced MRI technologies in early diagnosis and management of cSVD.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Clinical evidence of cerebral small vessel disease or MRI evidence of lacunar infarcts and white matter hyperintensity
- No disability (modified Rankin's scale < 2)
- No dementia (MMSE > 24 and absence of dependence in daily activities)
- Able and willing to consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Contraindications to MRI
- Standard MRI of bad quality due to movement artefacts
- Pregnant
- Unable to tolerate MRI