ESOC 2024 | Detection and management of covert small vessel disease

Covert cerebral small vessel disease (ccSVD) is a common condition affecting small blood vessels in the brain which increases the risk of future stroke, cognitive impairment, dependency, and death. ccSVD can be detected on neuroimaging scans, but does not present with obvious neurological symptoms. Raffaele Ornello, MD, University of L’Aquila L’Aquila, Italy, discusses the prevalence and management of ccSVD, emphasizing its commonality and the challenge of predicting which patients may have it. He notes that the European Stroke Organization recommends focusing on controlling vascular risk factors rather than using antithrombotics, which can increase hemorrhagic risk. Dr Ornello highlights the importance of long-term follow-up and strict management of risk factors such as hypertension. He proposes setting up specialized prevention clinics for better detection and management of ccSVD, suggesting that patients with arterial hypertension and subtle symptoms should be prioritized for screening. This interview took place at the 10th European Stroke Organisation Conference (ESOC) 2024 in Basel, Switzerland.

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