Cerebrospinal fluid MR dynamics and risk of falls in the elderly.

RATIONALE AND

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the relationship between CSF dynamics and risk of falls of unknown origin in the elderly.

POPULATION AND

METHODS

Phase contrast MR studies allowed CSF aqueductal flow quantification on 23 community-dwelling older people initially explored for mild cognitive impairment. Mobility assessment included report of falls, talking walking test, stance test, one leg standing test, up and go test, and measurement of fast gait speed.

RESULTS

History of falls was associated with larger aqueduct, steeper diastolic slopes higher ratios RDV/SD of diastolic volume/CSF systole duration (p</=0.0006). Amplitude CSF parameters, diastolic slopes and RDV/SD appeared correlated with the aqueduct area (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary data suggest that disturbances of CSF dynamics could play a role in mobility decline with aging especially in falls of unknown origin.