Structural and Neuroanatomical Substrates of Neurodegenerative Processes: Clinical-Morphological Correlations and Risk Determinants
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31149/ijimm.v4i2.2676Keywords:
Neurodegeneration, Hippocampal Atrophy, Cortical Thinning, MRI Morphometry, Cognitive Decline, Structural BiomarkersAbstract
Neurodegenerative diseases represent one of the fastest-growing causes of disability and mortality worldwide. According to recent global epidemiological estimates, more than 55 million people are currently living with dementia, and this number is expected to exceed 78 million by 2030. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for approximately 60–70% of cases, while Parkinson’s disease affects over 10 million individuals globally. Progressive neuronal loss, synaptic dysfunction, and structural brain atrophy form the anatomical basis of these disorders. The present study aimed to investigate structural neuroanatomical changes associated with neurodegenerative processes and to identify clinical correlations and risk determinants. A prospective observational study involving 90 patients with early-stage neurodegenerative disorders and 45 healthy controls was conducted using MRI morphometry, neuropsychological testing, and biochemical markers. Significant hippocampal and cortical atrophy, ventricular enlargement, and white matter changes were identified. The findings emphasize the importance of early structural biomarkers in predicting cognitive decline and functional impairment.
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