CT-derived density of intracranial arteriosclerosis: a population-based cohort study

Question Drivers of the CT density of intracranial artery calcifications are unknown and may reveal novel risk targets for population-based prevention strategies. Findings Calcifications of the anterior cerebral circulation are denser than those of the posterior circulation. Hypertension, diabetes, and smoking are key drivers of calcification density, resembling most drivers of its volume. Clinical relevance Calcification density may serve in distinguishing subtypes of intracranial calcifications, improving detection of subtype-specific effects. Further research is warranted to determine the role of intracranial arteriosclerosis density in prevention strategies for cerebrovascular diseases.