Prevalence of White Matter and Periventricular Magnetic Resonance Hyperintensities in Asymptomatic Volunteers

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of 101 asymptomatic volunteers ranging in age from 31 to 84 years (mean, 55 yr) was performed to determine the prevalence and extent of unexpected white matter (WMH) and periventricular hyperintensities (PVH) in the “normal” population. Twenty‐nine had followup studies after 11 to 28 months (mean, 15 mo). Predominantly punctate WMHs were present in 48%. Increasing prevalence was associated with aging and was significantly higher in individuals with major cerebrovascular risk factors (P < 0.05). PVH was noted in 45% and consisted mainly of caps and lines. Volunteers with more extensive WMHs (6%) or PVH (4%) had risk factors or were above 60 years of age. The repeat scans exhibited no significant changes.