Cerebral small vessel disease does it lead to dementia?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concern about whether cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) can lead to dementia. The individual's mother has been diagnosed with CSVD and is experiencing dysphasia and memory difficulties. All blood tests and heart function tests have come back normal, but the individual is still worried about developing small vessel dementia. With the help of Google, it is found that CSVD is a common cause of cognitive impairment and vascular dementia, with different cognitive deficits than Alzheimer's disease.
  • #1
Diamani
2
0
Cerebral small vessel disease...does it lead to dementia?

My mum (51) has recently had a TIA and has been diagnosed with CSVD. She has some dysphasia and memory trouble. She has had bloods...all normal, lipids at 5.5 (put on meds to bring it down to 3.5), carotid dopplers - normal, all vitals are within normal limits, transthorasic echo and tranesophageal echo show normal heart function. She is however very worried about developing small vessel dementia. Does anyone know if SVD leads to dementia?
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2


With the help of our beloved Google I found some information about that:

"Cerebral small vessel disease is a common cause of cognitive impairment and vascular dementia. The cognitive deficit differs from that in Alzheimer's disease, with greater executive/attentional dysfunction and relatively intact episodic memory."

This is from http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1739761" [Broken]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3


Thank you for your help :)
 

1. What is cerebral small vessel disease?

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a condition that affects the small blood vessels in the brain. These vessels can become damaged or blocked, leading to problems with blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain.

2. What are the symptoms of CSVD?

The symptoms of CSVD can vary depending on the severity and location of the affected blood vessels. Some common symptoms include cognitive impairment, difficulty with balance and coordination, changes in behavior and mood, and problems with memory and thinking.

3. Is CSVD a form of dementia?

While CSVD can lead to cognitive impairment, it is not considered a form of dementia on its own. However, CSVD is a major cause of vascular dementia, which is a type of dementia that occurs due to reduced blood flow to the brain.

4. Can CSVD be prevented?

There are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing CSVD, such as maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

5. How is CSVD diagnosed?

CSVD can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans. These tests can help identify any damage or changes in the small blood vessels of the brain.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Medical
Replies
21
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • General Discussion
Replies
4
Views
7K
Back
Top