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 R-DV/SD of diastolic volume/CSF systole duration (p less than or equal to 0.0006). Amplitude CSF parameters, diastolic slopes and R-DV/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.