Leukoaraiosis

Leukoaraiosis is merely a radiological diagnostic term, not a disease name. Generally, leukoaraiosis is closely related to age, meaning it is more prevalent among the elderly. If leukoaraiosis reaches a certain degree, it can lead to changes in some brain functions. There are various causes of leukoaraiosis, including prolonged hypoxic encephalopathy, hypertension, diabetes, etc.

1. Is Leukoaraiosis Dangerous?

Leukoaraiosis is generally a chronic cerebrovascular disease, often caused by long-term cerebral artery insufficiency due to arteriosclerosis. It usually does not pose an acute life-threatening risk, but it is a chronic condition. If not intervened and controlled in time, patients may develop symptoms such as headache, dizziness, memory decline, slow reaction, and even urination and defecation disorders. Therefore, it is recommended for patients with leukoaraiosis to undergo timely head vessel examinations and receive active treatment based on the cause.

2. What is Leukoaraiosis?

Leukoaraiosis is a radiological diagnosis manifesting as diffuse cerebral ischemia and demyelination changes in the white matter on cranial CT or MRI scans. It is mainly observed as punctate or lamellar demyelination changes in the distribution areas of the white matter, especially near the lateral ventricles and the anterior and posterior horns. The incidence is mainly seen in the elderly, often associated with small vessel diseases caused by hypertension, diabetes, and other medical histories. Some middle-aged individuals may also develop this condition, possibly related to genetic factors. Leukoaraiosis is commonly seen in neurology as demyelination of the white matter, mainly manifesting as decreased brain function, such as chronic progressive memory decline, slow reaction, dizziness, lethargy, and dementia symptoms. Some patients may also experience hallucinations, mania, and uncontrolled behavior.

3. Is Leukoaraiosis Alzheimer's Disease?

Leukoaraiosis is not Alzheimer's disease. It is observed in middle-aged and elderly patients, often associated with long-term hypertension, diabetes, hyperhomocysteinemia, hyperlipidemia, smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical exercise. These factors can lead to cerebral atherosclerosis, resulting in long-term ischemia and hypoxia in the brain tissue and subsequent leukoaraiosis. Alzheimer's disease, on the other hand, mainly refers to Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative disease of the brain. Patients typically show significant atrophy in the temporal lobe and hippocampus, leading to decreased cognitive function, memory, and orientation.