Neuroimaging for Diagnosis of Dementia

Although many clinicians consider neuroimaging studies as optional for the differential diagnosisof dementia, clinical experience suggests that they can improve diagnostic accuracy. Data are limited,however, on sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness of various neuroimaging techniques. Theauthor reviews advantages and disadvantages of neuroimaging techniques for the differential diagnosisof dementia and describes strategies used for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease, includingcombining positron emission tomography scanning with genetic risk assessment. Such approachescould provide a means for in vivo therapeutic monitoring of brain function during experimentalantidementia treatment trials.