Deep medullary veins score is associated with atrophy in patients with cerebral small vessel disease

Abstract

Objective: To explore the relationship between the deep medullary vein (DMV) score and atrophy in patients with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD).

Methods: Imaging and clinical data from 125 patients with CSVD from January to December 2022 were reviewed. Normalized gray matter volume (GM_N) was calculated by dividing the gray matter volume by the whole brain volume. DMV scoring is conducted using susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, wherein the DMV area is partitioned into six distinct regions: bilateral frontal, parietal, and occipital regions. Each region undergoes assessment based on the clarity and consistency of DMV visibility. Subsequently, the scores from these six regions are summed, resulting in a score ranging from 0 to 18 points.

Results: DMV score was associated with GM_N (r = -0.376, p < 0.001). Comparisons among patients according to GM_N tertiles, differences in gender, age, current smoking, DMV score, and total CSVD magnetic resonance imaging score were demonstrated (p < 0.05). Adjusting for age, gender, vascular risk factors, and total CSVD MR score, the DMV score was independently associated with GM_N [β (95% CI): -0.347 (-0.525, -0.168), p < 0.001].

Conclusion: DMV scores are independently associated with GM_N, and DMV dysfunction may play a role in brain atrophy.

Keywords: age; atrophy; cerebral small vessel disease; deep medullary vein; susceptibility weighted imaging.