Abstract: ObjectiveTo investigate the neuropsychological impairments and risk factors that caused cognitive disturbance in patients with silent brain infarction (SBI). Methods36 SBI subjects and 25 normal controls were compared on a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. Logistic regression was used to analysis the risk factors. ResultsThe SBI group scored lower on the visual retention test (VRT), the WAIS RC full scale IQ, standard scores of the perceptual organization factor and memory/attention factors than did the control group. The score of self rating depression scale (SDS) was higher in SBI group. Hypertension and leukoaraiosis (LA) were correlates of cognitive impairment in logistic regression analyses. Conclusions SBI has some degree of neuropsychological impairment, especially deficits of visuospatial ability, disturbance of perceptual organization, memory and attention, and some degree of depression. Hypertension and LA independently contribute to the risk factors of cognitive disturbance.

Key words: silent brain infarction (SBI), neuropsychology, risk factors