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Molecular imaging in dementia: Past, present, and future
Author(s) -
Laforce Robert,
Soucy JeanPaul,
Sellami Leila,
DallaireThéroux Caroline,
Brunet Francis,
Bergeron David,
Miller Bruce L.,
Ossenkoppele Rik
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.713
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1552-5279
pISSN - 1552-5260
DOI - 10.1016/j.jalz.2018.06.2855
Subject(s) - dementia , molecular imaging , disease , neuroscience , medicine , neuroimaging , modality (human–computer interaction) , clinical trial , clinical practice , amyloid (mycology) , pathological , pathology , bioinformatics , psychology , computer science , artificial intelligence , in vivo , biology , physical therapy , microbiology and biotechnology
Molecular imaging techniques using 18 F‐fluorodeoxyglucose, amyloid tracers, and, more recently, tau ligands have taken dementia research by storm and undoubtedly improved our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. The ability to image in vivo the pathological substrates of degenerative diseases and visualize their downstream impact has led to improved models of pathogenesis, better differential diagnosis of atypical conditions, as well as focused subject selection and monitoring of treatment in clinical trials aimed at delaying or preventing the symptomatic phase of Alzheimer's disease. In this article, we present the main molecular imaging techniques used in research and practice. We further summarize the key findings brought about by each technique individually and more recently, as adjuncts to each other. Specific limitations of each imaging modality are discussed, as well as recommendations to overcome them. A nonvalidated clinical algorithm is proposed for earlier and more accurate identification of complex/atypical neurodegenerative diseases.