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

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The document provides a comprehensive overview of recent updates in the diagnostics and treatments for Alzheimer's Disease (AD), presented by the American Psychiatric Association. The seminar, led by Dr. Ganesh Gopalakrishna and Dr. Pallavi Joshi, covers various aspects such as definitions, epidemiology, neuropathology, and standard and emerging therapeutic strategies.<br /><br />Key highlights include:<br />1. **Definition and Staging**: Alzheimer's Disease is outlined as a continuum from asymptomatic stages to severe dementia. The revised criteria focus on integrating biological and clinical staging, emphasizing early detection of biomarkers for improved prognosis and diagnostic accuracy.<br /><br />2. **Biomarkers**: New diagnostic methods primarily target Alzheimer's core biomarkers, including amyloid and tau protein detection through PET scans. Blood-based biomarkers like phosphorylated tau levels are explored for their potential in early diagnosis and monitoring treatment efficacy.<br /><br />3. **Current Care Landscape**: The document discusses a significant shortage of specialized dementia care professionals, which is essential for the growing number of affected individuals due to demographic changes, particularly as the U.S. population ages.<br /><br />4. **Pharmacological Management**: Current treatments for AD include Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine) and Memantine, aimed at mitigating symptoms and slowing progression. <br /><br />5. **Emerging Therapies**: Efforts in disease-modifying therapies focus on anti-amyloid drugs like Lecanemab and Donanemab, which have shown promise in slowing cognitive decline in mild stages of AD. The potential side effects of these therapies, such as ARIA (Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities), are actively monitored.<br /><br />6. **Continued Research and Education**: The document underscores the need for ongoing research and professional education in AD management, with upcoming webinars on related topics like obesity treatment.<br /><br />Overall, this seminar intends to enhance understanding and application of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, thereby improving patient outcomes in Alzheimer's Disease care.

Keywords

Alzheimer's Disease

diagnostics

treatments

biomarkers

pharmacological management

emerging therapies

American Psychiatric Association

neuropathology

dementia care

cognitive decline