PET Imaging Could Aid in Predicting Alzheimer's Disease Progression

Recent research suggests that specific brain scans combined with memory tests could indicate whether people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) will go on to develop Alzheimer's disease.

The study, compiled by Dr. Susanne Sorensen, head of research, and investigators from the UK Alzheimer's Society (London), revealed that individuals who showed abnormal results on a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging brain scan, which detects metabolic abnormalities and episodic memory tests, were nearly 12 times more apt to develop Alzheimer's disease.

The spokespersons for the Alzheimer's Society commented, "We don't currently know which people with MCI will go on to develop Alzheimer's disease. This important study moves us a step closer to unraveling this mystery. The tests identified could have real benefits in our search for a cause or cure for the disease, helping researchers identify suitable participants for drug trials. At this stage, it is a leap too far to say these tests can have immediate benefits for routine diagnosis. They are currently too expensive and the prognosis of Alzheimer's they provide is not 100% guaranteed. We need more investment into research and treatment if we are to move our knowledge forward and improve the lives of people with dementia.”

The study was published online in July 2010 in the journal Neurology.

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