MRI Predicts Degeneration of Memory
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania utilized MRI studies to identify patients with mild cognitive impairment. This is associated with later development of Alzheimer’s disease in some patients. The group published their findings in the journal of Neurobiology and Aging.
The team evaluated MRI studies to capture and quantify distribution of particular tissue patterns in the brain, while also measuring both volume and density of those tissues. The researchers used the technique to both identify, as well as predict those patients with cognitive decline.
The tool had high rates of both sensitivity and specificity. It was 100 percent accurate identifying patients with disease and distinguishing them from persons with normal cognitive functioning. Equally as exciting, the tool was 90 percent accurate predicting those persons with developing disease.
Current definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can only be achieved postmortem during autopsy. The ability to diagnose patients with a reliable tool and even predict disease development enables commencement of treatment at an early stage of disease.
The Penn researchers developed a system that can identify disease even before symptoms manifest. This may significantly curb cognitive decline. A benefit of this approach is that the study does not need to be completed at multiple points across time, which is prohibitively costly.
Related stories:
- Screening Tool for Memory Loss Validated
- Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease
- New Cognitive Testing Device Introduced for Seniors
July 16, 2007 Related topics: New Technology & Innovation, Radiology, Psychiatry & Neurology