{"id":1351,"date":"2026-03-23T06:29:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-23T06:29:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kishiwada.tokushukai.or.jp\/en\/departments\/neurology\/alzheimers-testing\/"},"modified":"2026-04-11T03:56:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-11T03:56:14","slug":"alzheimers-testing","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/kishiwada.tokushukai.or.jp\/en\/departments\/neurology\/alzheimers-testing\/","title":{"rendered":"Alzheimer’s-related Testing"},"content":{"rendered":"
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What we do<\/div>\n
Diagnostic evaluation for suspected Alzheimer’s disease, including amyloid PET when appropriate<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Purpose<\/div>\n
Clarify diagnosis and support treatment planning<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Next steps<\/div>\n
Follow-up care or referral based on clinical findings<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

\n We evaluate patients with early memory symptoms<\/strong> or suspected mild cognitive impairment (MCI)<\/strong>.
\n When clinically appropriate, amyloid PET<\/strong> may be used to support diagnosis and guide further management,
\n including consideration of disease-modifying treatment.\n <\/p>\n<\/header>\n

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Who may benefit from evaluation<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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  • Progressive memory decline affecting daily life<\/li>\n
  • Suspected MCI due to Alzheimer’s disease<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • Unclear diagnosis after standard assessment<\/li>\n
  • Planning treatment options that require confirmation of amyloid pathology<\/li>\n
  • Referral for further evaluation, including possible amyloid PET<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n

    \n Amyloid PET is not used for general screening or routine health checkups.
    \n It is considered only when clinically appropriate.\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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    What amyloid PET can show<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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    \n Amyloid PET is an imaging test that detects amyloid plaque deposition<\/strong>,
    \n which may be associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
    \n It is used as part of a broader clinical assessment.\n <\/p>\n

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    • Indicates<\/strong> whether amyloid pathology is present<\/li>\n
    • Supports<\/strong> decisions about treatment options<\/li>\n
    • Does not determine<\/strong> symptom severity or daily function on its own<\/li>\n
    • Does not replace<\/strong> clinical evaluation, cognitive testing, or MRI<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n

      \n Results are interpreted together with symptoms, examination findings, and other tests.\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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      Before testing<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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      \n Before considering amyloid PET, we carry out a structured assessment.
      \n This includes review of symptoms, cognitive testing, and evaluation of prior imaging and medical records.\n <\/p>\n

      \n The aim is to ensure that testing is appropriate and will contribute to clinical decision-making.\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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      After testing<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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      \n After testing, we explain the results and discuss next steps.
      \n This may include follow-up care, medication review, lifestyle advice, and coordination with family where appropriate.\n <\/p>\n

      \n If findings are consistent with early Alzheimer’s disease and safety criteria are met,
      \n we may proceed to evaluation for treatment options such as
      \n Lecanemab (Leqembi\u00ae) or Donanemab (Kisunla\u00ae)<\/a>.\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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      Appointment<\/h2>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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      Appointments are required in principle. A referral letter from another medical institution is recommended but not mandatory.
      \n Amyloid PET is arranged only after specialist evaluation and scheduling.<\/p>\n

      \n Please bring any relevant records if available (prior cognitive test results, MRI\/CT reports, medication list).
      \n If possible, a family member should accompany the patient.\n <\/p>\n

      \n For appointment requests and language support, please see the
      \n       Neurology<\/a> page.\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/section>\n