The Alzheimer’s Association has released a comprehensive clinical practice guideline to enhance the diagnostic evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD). Published online on December 23 in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, the guideline is designed for use in both specialist and primary care settings, aiming to standardize and improve the diagnostic process.

Developed by Alireza Atri, M.D., Ph.D., from the Banner Sun Health Research Institute and Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Sun City, Arizona, and colleagues, the guideline is based on a meticulous review of 7,374 publications, with 133 meeting the inclusion criteria. It provides an evidence-based, patient-centered framework for evaluating individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of AD or ADRD.

The guideline advocates for a multitiered, structured approach tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Clinicians are encouraged to gather detailed information on cognitive, behavioral, and functional changes, along with neuropsychiatric symptoms, sensory and motor function, and individualized risk factors for cognitive decline. A strong emphasis is placed on shared decision-making, ensuring patients and their caregivers are actively involved in setting goals for the diagnostic process. Laboratory and cognitive tests are recommended to be personalized to align with the patient’s medical risks and profile.

Dr. Atri highlighted the significance of this initiative, describing it as the first U.S. interdisciplinary national guideline for evaluating AD and ADRD across diverse clinical settings. He stated, “This guideline provides a comprehensive foundation summarizing a high-quality and personalized process within which specific tests are slotted and can be updated as the field evolves.”

This landmark guideline is expected to improve the accuracy and consistency of Alzheimer’s disease diagnoses, offering clinicians a structured framework to navigate the complexities of assessing and managing this challenging condition.