MRI technology has been used for decades to diagnose various ailments, diseases, sprains and breaks. For the first time, scientists believe they can now diagnose Alzheimer’s disease through a simple MRI. The report was recently published in the journal, Radiology.
This breakthrough uses no radiation or contrast agent and appears to detect the earliest signs of impending cognitive decline. Researchers believe that this test, coupled with other Alzheimer’s assessments, might offer a simple and low-cost way to determine which seniors are at risk for developing the disease. This study looked at 148 seniors with no neurological issues and 65 with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment. The imaging technique—called arterial spin labeling—detected a spot of low blood flow in a specific area of the brain that predicted cognitive issues 18 months later.
At the conclusion of the 18 month study, the 148 seniors with no neurological issues then took a battery of neurocognitive tests including this new brain scan. Of that group, 75 seniors were found to have stable cognitive function while 73 were determined to have cognitive issues. These groups were then compared to the original 65 seniors who were already diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment at the onset of the test. The fascinating result showed that even 18 months before someone’s mental faculties were judged to be “deteriorating,” these scans showed low blood flow in an area of the brain that be- comes highly active when someone’s attention is wandering freely.
The authors of this study determined two benefits of using this specific test. First, no contrast dye is introduced to the brain. Secondly, researchers have concluded that this new technique can help identify those at the highest risk for developing Alzheimer’s dis- ease later in life. However, for those people who already are living with the disease this specific test will have no immediate impact.
To find out more about this study, please click here.
