Updates in Diagnostics & Therapeutics in Alzheimer's Dementia-View Presentation

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In a recent webinar titled "Updates on Diagnostics and Therapeutics for Alzheimer's Dementia," esteemed geriatric psychiatrists Dr. Ganesh Gopalakrishna and Dr. Pallavi Joshi shared comprehensive insights into Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Gopalakrishna outlined the progression and diagnostic criteria of Alzheimer's, emphasizing the continuum from asymptomatic phases through mild cognitive impairment to dementia. He highlighted the neuropathological underpinnings involving amyloid and tau proteins, presenting biomarkers used in diagnosis such as blood and CSF tests, and discussed recently revised criteria emphasizing biological indicators over clinical symptoms.<br /><br />Dr. Joshi focused on therapeutic strategies, underlining the importance of cholinesterase inhibitors (like Donepezil) and memantine in managing Alzheimer's symptoms. She explored new anti-amyloid therapies like Lecanemab and Donanemab, which aim to modify the disease's progression rather than just alleviate symptoms. These therapies show promise in reducing amyloid burden in the brain and slowing cognitive decline but come with risks such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA).<br /><br />Both experts emphasized the need for comprehensive patient counseling regarding treatment expectations and side effects, particularly with newer therapies, underscoring the importance of early detection and the judicious use of emerging treatments for optimal care. They also addressed questions regarding the management of cognitive impairment related to other causes, highlighting the need for personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in such cases. Despite advancements, challenges remain in treatment and care accessibility, emphasizing a need for ongoing research and resource development.

Keywords

Alzheimer's disease

diagnosis

therapeutics

Dr. Ganesh Gopalakrishna

Dr. Pallavi Joshi

cognitive impairment

amyloid proteins

tau proteins

cholinesterase inhibitors

memantine

Lecanemab

Donanemab

biomarkers