Assessing Alzheimer's Disease Progression through Imaging Techniques For Patients with Disease-Modifying Drugs

Abstract

Introduction:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that significantly impacts cognitive function. With the prevalence of AD rising globally, there is a critical need for effective disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) to halt or slow its progression. Imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) have emerged as crucial tools in evaluating these interventions. This review aimed to assess the role of imaging techniques in monitoring disease progression among AD patients treated with DMDs, focusing on the efficacy of various imaging modalities in capturing pathological changes.

Methods:

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, focusing on interventional studies and clinical trials from the last five years up to 2022 that used imaging techniques to assess AD progression. Inclusion criteria were interventional studies on AD patients treated with DMDs, with outcomes measured through imaging. Studies were excluded if they did not meet these criteria or were observational, reviews, or case reports. Data extraction focused on study characteristics, interventions, imaging outcomes, and measures of efficacy.

Results:

Six studies were included, with sample sizes ranging from 30 to 500 participants. Interventions included monoclonal antibodies targeting amyloid-beta, small molecule inhibitors, and novel therapeutic agents. Risk ratios for disease progression varied from 0.65 to 0.80, indicating a 20-35% reduction in progression risk with treatment. One study reported a 30% reduction in hippocampal volume loss, while another demonstrated a 25% slower progression in cognitive decline rates related to tau pathology.

Conclusions:

Imaging techniques are valuable in assessing the efficacy of DMDs in AD, with various interventions showing promise in slowing disease progression. However, the variability in therapeutic impact highlights the need for continued research to identify the most effective treatment strategies. Further studies should also explore the integration of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to provide comprehensive care for AD patient