In 2023, the FDA approved the first anti-amyloid treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, a groundbreaking development offering new hope to patients and families affected by this devastating condition. These therapies aim to slow the progressive decline of cognitive functions, such as memory and thinking, helping patients maintain their quality of life during the early stages of the disease.
Medical imaging has long played a vital role in neurology by enabling detailed visualization of the brain, one of the body’s most complex and essential organs. This role has expanded with the advent of anti-amyloid treatments, as imaging becomes central to both diagnosing Alzheimer’s and monitoring these therapies’ effects.
As a leader in outpatient imaging, American Health Imaging has established the Alzheimer’s Imaging Center of Excellence to provide patients, caregivers, and neurologists with accessible, cost-effective imaging services tailored to Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. While the exact causes remain unclear, researchers believe a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to its development.
A hallmark of Alzheimer’s is the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain. These clumps of protein fragments disrupt communication between neurons and trigger inflammation, leading to neuronal damage, loss of synapses, and eventual cognitive decline.
What Are Anti-Amyloid Therapies?
Anti-amyloid therapies target the root of the disease by removing beta-amyloid plaques from the brain. This biological approach addresses Alzheimer’s at a molecular level, slowing disease progression. However, potential side effects, including amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), necessitate close monitoring using advanced imaging technologies like MRI.
The Role of Medical Imaging in Alzheimer’s Care
1. Diagnosis with PET and MRI Scans
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s involves confirming the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. PET scans, considered a gold-standard diagnostic tool, use specialized radioactive tracers that bind to beta-amyloid, making the plaques visible in imaging. Subspecialized radiologists, such as neuroradiologists, analyze these images to confirm the diagnosis.
MRI scans also assist in detecting Alzheimer’s through advanced imaging techniques. Neurologists collaborate with imaging specialists to determine the most appropriate diagnostic method for each patient.
2. Monitoring Anti-Amyloid Treatment
Once treatment begins, imaging is crucial for detecting potential side effects, particularly ARIA. This condition can manifest as:
- Temporary brain swelling
- Small areas of bleeding on or within the brain’s surface
MRI scans are performed at regular intervals to monitor the brain’s response to treatment. The presence and severity of ARIA may influence whether a patient continues therapy. Neuroradiologists trained in anti-amyloid monitoring interpret these scans, providing neurologists with vital insights to guide treatment decisions.
American Health Imaging’s Alzheimer’s Imaging Centers of Excellence
American Health Imaging is dedicated to making advanced MRI imaging services cost-effective and convenient. With multiple locations across five states, American Health Imaging provides flexible scheduling options, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate patients’ needs.
As an in-network provider with 99% of major health insurance plans, American Health Imaging delivers high-quality imaging without the cost or inconvenience of a hospital visit. Specialized radiologists, including neuroradiologists, ensure imaging studies are accurately interpreted, offering healthcare providers the diagnostic clarity needed to optimize care.
Supporting Hope and Progress in Alzheimer’s Treatment
With the emergence of anti-amyloid therapies, patients and their families have renewed hope in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Through advanced medical imaging and specialized care, American Health Imaging is committed to supporting these groundbreaking therapies and improving outcomes for those affected by this challenging disease.
Reach out to us at American Health Imaging, and we’ll help you schedule an appointment at an imaging center near you, today.
We’re here to help you get the answers you need.