Molecular imaging for diagnosis of early cognitive impairment

Purpose and goal

Early detection and quantification of the molecular processes in the brain that precedes symptoms of dementia has now in a project been conducted as an out-patient PET-camera examination at Karolinska Hospital in Huddinge. The project has been financed by the Swedish company Hermes Medical Solutions AB and Vinnova. In collaboration with Karolinska Institute 39 patients, already undergone extended dementia assessment and the reason for the memory impairment still was not clear has been examined with a recently approved diagnostic medicine.

Results and expected effects

The benefit for the individual patient was large especially in those cases Alzheimer´s disease was dismissed as reason for the memory impairment. Treatment active against the true reason for the memory problems can then instead be inserted. For the patient that now through the project earlier receives a definitive Alzheimer´s disease diagnosis it is possible to along with relatives better plan for the future need of healthcare, care and housing. Also the value for healthcare and community care is high as the share of patients with changes in diagnosis or treatment plan is high.

Approach and implementation

The project has been implemented according to a project plan divided into five work packets. The steering group comprised two representatives from Hermes and KS and a representative from KI/KS. Mail, telephone, web meetings and personal meetings was used in between formal project meetings. One project meeting per work packet was held, additional meeting at milestones, discrepancies and decision points. In total 12 project meetings. All participants have demonstrated deep knowledge and commitment for the overall purpose an earlier and improved diagnosis of memory impairment.