Author:("Bianchetti, Angelo")

Timely Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Italy: An Expert Opinion

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) generally evolves in a gradually progressive decline in memory and non-memory cognitive domains that may eventually decay to dementia. This process might be preventable by improving early detection of the MCI syndrome followed by proper and timely interventions. The aim of this work was providing helpful indications for a standardized early diagnosis of MCI, mainly focusing on the Italian elderly population. We reviewed here MCI epidemiology and classification, as well as the most recent advancements in early detection of the patient with MCI in the Italian scenario. Specialist centers in connection with general practitioners (GPs) have …been established across the country and designated as Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementia (CDCD). CDCDs are dedicated to the diagnosis and management of patients for all forms of dementia across all the complex staging spectrum. New tools were made available by the advancements of imaging techniques and of the research on biomarkers, leading to novel approaches based on the combination of imaging and biomarker detection, to improve accuracy and effectiveness in the early diagnosis of MCI. Moreover, patient genotyping, alone or in combination with other techniques, was also revealed as a promising method in evaluating and preventing MCI progression. We recommend the introduction of all these novel tools in the diagnostic practice of the specialist centers and that further efforts and resources are spent into the research of the most effective techniques and biomarkers to be introduced as first-level tests into the practice of early diagnosis of MCI. Show more

Keywords: Biomarkers, early diagnosis, genotyping, imaging, mild cognitive impairment, neuropsychological assessment

DOI: 10.3233/JAD-181253

Citation: Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, vol. 68, no. 4, pp. 1401-1414, 2019

Price: EUR 27.50

Is Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration a Rare Disorder? Evidence from a Preliminary Study in Brescia County, Italy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD) has always been considered a rare disorder, but only a few epidemiologic studies are available. The aim of the present work was to ascertain all FTLD patients in a Northern Italy area from January 2001 to December 2008, and to estimate the disease prevalence. On the census day, 213 FTD patients were still alive, resulting in an overall prevalence of 17.6 per 100,000 inhabitants. The prevalence of FTLD in patients aged 45–65 years was 22 per 100,000 inhabitants (95% CI=17–27). The prevalence of FTLD was the highest in patients aged 66–75 (78 per 100,000 inhabitants, 95% …CI=56–100), and it was still high over 75 years (54 per 100,000 inhabitants, 95% CI=36–69). FTLD is a more common form of dementia than previously recognized. Our results claimed that FTLD is not only an early-onset disorder, but it is frequent in advanced age as well. Show more

Keywords: Epidemiology, Frontotemporal Dementia, Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration, prevalence, rare disease

DOI: 10.3233/JAD-2010-1208

Citation: Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, vol. 19, no. 1, pp. 111-116, 2010

Price: EUR 27.50

The Profile of the Italian Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementia in the Context of New Drugs in Alzheimer’s Disease

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: The wait for the upcoming disease-modifying therapies (DMT) for Alzheimer’s disease in Europe is raising questions about the preparedness of national healthcare systems to conduct accurate diagnoses and effective prescriptions. In this article, we focus on the current situation in Italy. Objective: The primary goal is to propose a profile of the Italian Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementias (CCDDs) that could be taken into consideration by regional and autonomous provincial authorities when deciding on the prescribing centers for DMT. Methods: Based on responses to a national survey on CCDDs in Italy, we identified the CCDDs that meet the …requirements for effective prescription: 1) Multidisciplinary team; 2) Minimum Core Test for the neuropsychological assessment; 3) PET, CSF, and Brain MRI assessments. Univariate and multivariate comparisons were conducted between CCDDs that met the criteria and the others. Results: Only 10.4% of CCDDs met the requirements for effective DMT prescription, mainly located in Northern Italy. They are also characterized by longer opening hours, a higher number of professionals, a university location, and a higher frequency of conducting genetic tests, and could potentially result in prescribing centers. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the Italian national healthcare system may benefit from further enhancements to facilitate the effective prescription of DMTs. This could involve initiatives to reduce fragmentation, ensure adequate resources and equipment, and secure sufficient funding to support this aspect of healthcare delivery. Show more

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementias, cognitive assessment, disease-modifying therapy, memory clinic, public health

DOI: 10.3233/JAD-240594

Citation: Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, vol. 101, no. 2, pp. 509-524, 2024

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Your search for: 'author:("Bianchetti, Angelo")' has returned 3 results. (0.011s)

Timely Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Italy: An Expert Opinion

Is Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration a Rare Disorder? Evidence from a Preliminary Study in Brescia County, Italy

The Profile of the Italian Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementia in the Context of New Drugs in Alzheimer’s Disease

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Europe

Asia

Your search for: 'author:("Bianchetti, Angelo")' has returned 3 results. (0.011s) Save search

Timely Detection of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Italy: An Expert Opinion

Is Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration a Rare Disorder? Evidence from a Preliminary Study in Brescia County, Italy

The Profile of the Italian Centers for Cognitive Disorders and Dementia in the Context of New Drugs in Alzheimer’s Disease

North America

Europe

Asia

Your search for: 'author:("Bianchetti, Angelo")' has returned 3 results. (0.011s)