Which of the following is FALSE regarding cerebral microbleeds (CMBs)?
**Core Concept**
Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are small, rounded areas of bleeding visible on MRI scans, typically indicating the presence of small vessel disease or amyloid angiopathy in the brain. They are often associated with hypertension, stroke, and dementia.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Cerebral microbleeds are usually seen in the deep brain structures, such as the basal ganglia, thalamus, and pons, but are also commonly found in the lobar regions of the brain, particularly in patients with Alzheimer's disease and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. The presence of CMBs is an important marker for increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage and cognitive decline.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** CMBs are indeed often associated with hypertension, making this statement true.
**Option B:** CMBs are typically round or oval in shape, making this statement false.
**Option C:** CMBs are indeed often seen in patients with a history of stroke, making this statement true.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When interpreting MRI scans, it is essential to note that CMBs are often difficult to distinguish from other lesions, such as calcifications or small infarcts. A thorough clinical history and correlation with other imaging findings are crucial in making an accurate diagnosis.
**Correct Answer: B.**