leukoaraiosis
Pronunciation: loo-ko-air-eye-OH-sis
White matter changes on neuroimaging, typically representing small vessel disease or chronic ischaemia.
Full Definition
Leukoaraiosis refers to white matter hyperintensities seen on T2-weighted or FLAIR MRI sequences, representing areas of chronic ischaemic damage or demyelination in the brain's white matter. These changes are commonly associated with small vessel cerebrovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and normal ageing. Leukoaraiosis can be periventricular or deep white matter in location and is graded according to various scales including the Fazekas scale. While mild changes may be asymptomatic, extensive leukoaraiosis can contribute to cognitive impairment, gait disturbance, and increased risk of stroke and dementia.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred term over 'white matter hyperintensities' in formal radiology reporting.
In Context
- "Moderate periventricular leukoaraiosis was noted on FLAIR imaging, consistent with small vessel disease." — MRI brain report
- "The patient's cognitive symptoms correlated with the extent of leukoaraiosis on neuroimaging." — Cognitive neurology assessment