Hi @lmg1128 and welcome to Connect. Brain small vessel disease actually refers to a group of pathological processes that affect the small blood vessels of the brain. I'm not surprised at the confusion with the term. Even the medical professional and researchers use different terms for describing the disease and its features. You may also see it referred to as cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). From what I've read, cerebral small vessel disease is most commonly related to aging and hypertension.

No doubt your sister and you have a lot of questions about the diagnosis, treatment options and what will happen next. Experts at the Mayo Clinic can help you navigate your healthcare journey, answer your questions and guide you through the treatment plan. I encourage her to contact Mayo Clinic in Rochester. She will be offered an appointment within 48 hours http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63 Be sure to mention the Cerebrovascular access program.

She may not have to have another MRI when seeking a second opinion. Doctors will look at her recent imaging studies and medical records.