Imaging the Pathogenesis of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Johns Hopkins University
Summary
Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) can lead to vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). The hallmark of CSVD is the appearance and progression of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on MRI. The goal of this study it to recruit and follow individuals at risk for WMH progression and use serial MRI scanning to gain insights into the pathogenesis of CSVD.
Description
Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia (VCID) which is attributed in large part to cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is prevalent in patients with a history of stroke and vascular risk factors. The hallmark of CSVD is white matter hyperintensities (WMH) seen on T2-weighted MRI. The initial amount, and rate of progression, of WMH is tied closely with the development and progression cognitive deficits. It is hypothesized that one of the early pathologic features in the normal appearing white matter (NAWM), before it progresses to WMH is disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and loss…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not specified
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical or radiographic evidence of ischemic stroke * One vascular risk factor (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes) * Evidence of cerebral small vessel disease on MRI Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to complete 3 research MRI scans over 1.25 years
Location
- Kennedy Krieger InstituteBaltimore, Maryland