Study shows PET scans with Amyvid (Cardinal Health) provides significant value in treating patients with cognitive impairment

Results of a new study to assess the value of Amyvid (florbetapir F18) PET, from Cardinal Health, in detecting brain amyloid deposits associated with Alzheimer disease in patients with cognitive impairment, and in helping with clinical decision-making, shows the technique can play a significant role. The study included 229 patients previously evaluated for cognitive decline or impairment of uncertain etiology. Before the florbetapir PET scan, doctors provided a provisional diagnosis, an estimate of their diagnostic confidence, and their plans for further testing and treatment. The florbetapir PET scans showed amyloid deposits in 113 out of 229 patients. The information provided led doctors to change their diagnosis in 55% of cases.

When the provisional diagnosis was AD, imaging results led to a change in diagnosis in 37% of cases. When the pre-scan diagnosis was either "indeterminate" or another cause of dementia, the diagnosis changed in over 60% of cases. In either direction, the scans increased the physicians' ratings of diagnostic confidence by about 20%. Florbetapir PET also provided useful information for treatment decision-making: in 87% of patients. Results were published in the journal Alzheimer Disease & Associated Disorders. See: "Potential Impact of Amyloid Imaging on Diagnosis and Intended Management in Patients With Progressive Cognitive Decline." Grundman, Michael et al Alzheimer Disease & Associated Disorders: 29 November 2012. DOI: 10.1097/WAD.0b013e318279d02a