Using a PET Scan, Physicians Can Distinguish Between Alzheimer's and Other Types of Dementia

In a recent press release, researchers have announced that it is possible to determine whether or not someone suffering with dementia has Alzheimer's disease. A PET scan can detect minor differences in the brain tissues that indicate the presence, or absence, of Alzheimer's disease. As our population continues to age, the number of cases of FTD and Alzheimer's are expected to increase significantly.

Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered that using a PET scan (postitron emission tomography) can help physicians make an accurate diagnosis when someone is suspected of suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Many times it is difficult for physicians to determine if someone is suffering from another type of dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Using the PET scan device, the accuracy of a diagnosis for dementia or Alzheimer's disease was significantly increased. The physician's ability to provide the correct diagnosis of another type of dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD) was significantly increased as well.

Frontotemporal dementia differs from Alzheimer's by the region of the brain that is attacked, and its treatment. The beginning stages of frontotemporal dementia are often confusing and a patient may be diagnosed with Alzheimer's in error.

By using a PET scan, physicians can see differences in the actual brain structure of patients who have frontotemporal dementia.

"Early diagnosis of FTD can have a tremendous impact on the treatment for patients and their family members. Many patients are misdiagnosed and may be hospitalized and receive drugs for the wrong disease. Accurate diagnosis bypasses the costs, side-effects, and frustration of misguided care. Furthermore, one-third of FTD patients have a family history of a similar disorder and family members need to know if they are at increased risk of the disease," said Norman L. Foster, M.D., professor of neurology and director of the Center for Alzheimer's Care, Imaging and Research at the University of Utah School of Medicine.