Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Cadasil, standing for Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Sub-cortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy, is the standard medical term for this hereditary small-vessel disease. While it is most commonly referred to by its acronym, Cadasil, it is occasionally historicaly linked to terms describing hereditary multi-infarct dementia or familial vascular leukoencephalopathy. What are the common names and synonyms for Cadasil? In medical literature, Cadasil is the universally accepted designation.
Cadasil (Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy With Sub-Cortical Infarcts And Leukoencephalopathy) synonyms
Other names for Cadasil (Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy With Sub-Cortical Infarcts And Leukoencephalopathy): synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Cadasil, standing for Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Sub-cortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy, is the standard medical term for this hereditary small-vessel disease. While it is most commonly referred to by its acronym, Cadasil, it is occasionally historicaly linked to terms describing hereditary multi-infarct dementia or familial vascular leukoencephalopathy.
What are the common names and synonyms for Cadasil?
In medical literature, Cadasil is the universally accepted designation. Because it is a specific genetic diagnosis, it does not have many colloquial synonyms, but you may encounter older or descriptive terms in clinical reports or archival research. These include:
- Familial vascular leukoencephalopathy
- Hereditary multi-infarct dementia
- Pseudo-migraine with temporary neurological symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes
- NOTCH3-related arteriopathy (referencing the specific gene involved)
Why does Cadasil have multiple names?
The naming of Cadasil has evolved alongside our understanding of its genetic basis. Before the identification of the NOTCH3 gene mutation in 1996, the condition was often described by its clinical presentation, such as "hereditary multi-infarct dementia." As clinical research progressed, the term Cadasil was adopted to provide a precise, standardized description of the pathology: a cerebral, autosomal dominant, arterial disease involving sub-cortical strokes and white matter changes (leukoencephalopathy).
How is the disease classified officially?
Major medical databases provide standardized identifiers to help patients and doctors track Cadasil across health systems:
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): #125190
- Orphanet: ORPHA139
- ICD-10: I67.8 (Other specified cerebrovascular diseases)
Using the official name Cadasil is the most effective way to ensure accurate communication with specialists and to find relevant peer-reviewed data. Currently, 57 people with Cadasil have joined the DiseaseMaps.org community, sharing their collective experiences to help others navigate this diagnosis.
Next steps
- Discuss your specific genetic report with a clinical geneticist to confirm your NOTCH3 mutation status.
- Consult a neurologist specializing in vascular neurology or neurogenetics.
- Join the community at DiseaseMaps.org to connect with others managing this condition.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- Orphanet (ORPHA139): Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy
- NIH GARD (Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center): CADASIL
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Entry #125190
- The CADASIL Foundation: Patient-focused resources and clinical updates
