1,066 participants from an ongoing population-based cohort who underwent brain MRI were included in the present analysis. Burden of PVS were visually scored in white matter and basal ganglia. We investigated DTI-derived indices including fractional anisotropy (FA),mean diffusivity (MD),axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD), using tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS)

Diffused distribution of decreased FA and increased MD, AD and RD was found in subjects with higher burden of enlarged PVS in white matter as well as in basal ganglia. Mean values of FA for high burden vs low burden group in white matter and basal ganglia were 0.448 vs 0.456(p < 0.001) and 0.443 vs 0.457(P<0.001), respectively. Mean values of MD, AD and RA showed a reversed pattern of difference between groups. The significant areas included internal capsule, corona radiata, posterior thalamic radiation, inferior and superior longitudinal fasciculus(P<0.01). Adjustment for age, gender, vascular risk factors, and other MRI markers of cerebral small vessel disease did not change the result.

Our findings suggested a correlation between PVS enlargement and WM damage. However, in theory, the free fluid within PVS may also contribute to the association between PVS and DTI parameters.