Diffusion tensor imaging analysis along the perivascular space in different burdens of cerebral small vessel disease

Motivation: Cognitive decline is associated with the impairment of glymphatic clearance, which can be investigated noninvasively using diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS). Goal(s): To investigate the linkage of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) burdens with left/right glymphatic function based on DTI-ALPS. Approach: Glymphatic system function was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space. Results: The DTI-ALPS indexes in the CSVD groups were lower than the HC group. Hazard factors for right DTI-ALPS included CSVD severity and sex. Although the right DTI-ALPS index was associated with cognition in univariate analysis, it was not significant in regression analysis. Impact: The DTI-ALPS technique provides a new opportunity for exploring the damage of CSVD burdens.