Progress and Concerns Surrounding Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis and Treatment

In a recent development in the field of Alzheimer's disease, controversy has arisen over the use of a new blood test called Leqembi for diagnosing the condition. Dr. Jonel Dershem from New Jersey shared her experience of using Leqembi, claiming it has slowed the progression of her early-onset Alzheimer's. However, critics like Dr. George Perry have raised concerns, stating that the test could lead to unnecessary diagnoses and benefit pharmaceutical companies and the Alzheimer's Association financially. The Alzheimer's Association defended its criteria for diagnosis, attributing it to advancements in Alzheimer's science. The new criteria, developed by a group with ties to drug companies, have sparked debate within the medical community. Some experts estimate that a significant number of healthy individuals could test positive for Alzheimer's under the new guidelines, raising questions about the accuracy and implications of such diagnoses. The revised guidelines were influenced by the availability of drugs to slow disease progression and new blood tests for specific proteins linked to Alzheimer's. The criteria, presented at a conference in 2023, aimed to incorporate diverse perspectives from industry, medicine, academia, and regulatory bodies. However, concerns persist about the potential overdiagnosis and the need for clearer diagnostic guidelines for clinicians. Meanwhile, a new cognitive test called SAGE, developed at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, offers a convenient way to detect early signs of cognitive decline. Dr. Douglas Scharre, the lead author of the study introducing SAGE, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and the impact it can have on documenting and treating cognitive concerns in patients. The test's accessibility and potential to enhance primary care visits highlight a proactive approach to addressing cognitive health issues.