Faster MRI Scans for Dementia Diagnosis
University College London has published a study, part funded by Alzheimer’s Society’s Heather Corrie Impact Fund, which shows it’s possible to cut the time for diagnostic MRI scans for dementia to one third of their standard length.
MRI scans play a key role in accurate dementia diagnosis, including ruling out other causes of symptoms and assisting in diagnosing the type of dementia.
- Shorter scans would be easier and more comfortable for patients.
- More people could be scanned at a lower cost.
- The team behind the study say this could at least double the number of dementia scans able to be done in one day.
Cutting the time for diagnostic MRI scans for dementia has been described as a step towards ending ‘the postcode lottery in dementia diagnosis’.
Emerging disease-modifying treatments such as lecanemab and donaneb also require an MRI scan before starting treatment and for safety monitoring during the course of treatment.
Author's summary: Faster MRI scans offer new hope for dementia diagnosis and treatment.