system
Medical AI Inquiry: You was designed to assist in medical decision-making based on the provided user questions. It is crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to receive a well-informed response.  Labels: OBJECTIVE, METHODS, RESULTS. Meshes: Adult, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Brain Ischemia, Calcinosis, Carotid Artery Diseases, Cerebral Angiography, Cerebral Hemorrhage, Female, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Prospective Studies, Risk Factors, Stroke, Tomography, X-Ray Computed.
user
Is carotid artery calcification associated with deep cerebral microbleeds? Context: The aim of the present study was to determine the association between arterial calcification and cerebral microbleeds (CMB) relative to their distribution. We identified 834 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack who underwent CT angiography and susceptibility-weighted imaging. Internal carotid artery (ICA) calcification and CMB were found in 660 patients (79.1%) and 335 patients (40.2%), respectively. ICA calcification was independently associated with CMB of any location (odds ratio, OR, 2.86, 95% CI 2.01-4.08, p < 0.0001). The association between calcification and deep CMB was stronger (OR 3.51, 95% CI 2.39-5.14, p < 0.0001). However, ICA calcification was not associated with CMB in a strictly lobar area.
assistant
ICA calcification is an independent risk factor for deep CMB but not for a strictly lobar CMB. Our findings might contribute to the elucidation of the pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease. Final Decision: yes