J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2009 Jul;48(4):287-293.

The Association of Cognitive Dysfunction with White Matter Hyperintensity in Alzheimer's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment

• Yoon SG
• Park DB
• Na C
• Lee YS
• Min KJ
• Han DH
• Choi TY
• Ahn YK
• Na HI
• Kee BS

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
: We investigated the relationship between periventricular and deep white matter hyperintensity and cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
METHODS
: T2-weighted MRI scans were performed in 41 subjects with AD 38 subjects with mild cognitive impairment and 38 control subjects. Periventricular and deep white matter hyperintensities were rated on a Fazekas 0-3 scale by a medical specialist of the department of radiology blind to clinical diagnosis. Cognitive function was assessed by using Cognitive Assessment and Reference Diagnoses System.
RESULTS
: No significant differences between demographic characteristics and vascular risk factors were revealed comparing AD, MCI and controls. The frequencies of AD were significantly higher than those of MCI and normal control in Grade 2 and 3 of periventricular hyperintensity and Grade 3 of deep white matter hyperintensity. The scores of amnesia, executive function and attention were significantly lower in Grade 2 and 3 of periventricular hyperintensity than in Grade 0 and 1. The scores of attention were significantly lower in Grade 3 of deep white matter hyperintensity than in Grade 0, 1 and 2.
CONCLUSION
: Periventricualr hyperintensities are associated with cognitive decline in amnesia, executive function and attention, while deep white matter hyperintensities are associated with cognitive decline in attention.

Keyword

White matter hyperintensity; Alzheimer's disease; Mild cognitive impairment

MeSH Terms

Alzheimer Disease
Amnesia
Executive Function
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Mild Cognitive Impairment
Risk Factors
Specialization