Background Magnetic resonance imaging of the internal auditory meatus frequently detects incidental white matter hyperintensities. This study investigated the association between these and the risk of stroke and transient ischaemic attack, or myocardial infarction. Methods The records of patients with incidental white matter hyperintensities were reviewed, and data were collected on: age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, and incidence of stroke and transient ischaemic attack, or myocardial infarction, five years later. The risk factors associated with vascular events were explored. Results Of 6978 patients, 309 (4.4 per cent) had incidental white matter hyperintensities. Of these, 20 (6.5 per cent) had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack within five years, and 5 (1.7 per cent) had a myocardial infarction. The number of cardiovascular risk factors was significantly associated with the incidence of stroke and transient ischaemic attack (p = 0.004), and myocardial infarction (p = 0.023). Conclusion The number of cardiovascular risk factors predicts the likelihood of vascular events; appropriate risk factor management is recommended for patients with incidental white matter hyperintensities of presumed vascular origin.

ObjectiveTo determine the clinical significance of arachnoid cysts.MethodsThe scans of 6978 patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging of the internal acoustic meatus for unilateral cochleovestibular symptoms were retrospectively reviewed. We identified the scans with arachnoid cysts, and assessed the statistical associations between the laterality, location and size of the arachnoid cyst, the laterality of symptoms, the patients’ age and gender.ResultsIn a total of 37 arachnoid cysts identified in 36 patients (0.5 per cent), no associations were identified between the laterality of symptoms and the laterality of the arachnoid cyst, regardless of its size or location. There were no significant associations between the location of the arachnoid cyst and the age (p = 0.99) or gender of the patient (p = 0.13), or size (p = 0.656) or side of the cyst (p = 0.61). None of the cysts with repeat imaging scans (17 cysts) demonstrated growth.ConclusionOur results suggest that most, if not all, arachnoid cysts are of no clinical significance. Given their indolent behaviour, even serial imaging is not essential.