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I was doing some reading today, and want to share this because I think this will be interesting and important information for some of our members, regarding “Differential Diagnosis” (ie, the ability to reach a diagnosis by ruling out other things.)
Answer Summary
Members rallied around someone navigating a concerning MRI finding, a positive blood test, and a strong family history of dementia, offering... Read more
@A myALZteam Member
Good morning. I want to let you know I am praying for you today. It is so hard to take care of ourselves when caring for a loved one with a disease like this. We neglect our own health. I haven't been on her as often as I should be lately to keep a check on all of my friends here. I wii try to do better. Remember God is carrying you and Rick in His Hands and He is the Master Physician. We are here for you.
@A myALZteam Member and @A myALZteam Member First of all, I was not suggesting that Robin is 75, I just wanted to say that dr Scheltens, the originator of an Index for MRI evidence for Alzheimer's, in his first paper (early nineties) already showed evidence that by age 75 the age effect is overtaking anything in MRI that could be used to firmly diagnose Alzheimer's. PET and blood or CFS tests are more conclusive. That's why I also endorse going to a centre of excellence. The second thing I report here is that I followed Helen's suggestion and asked Gemini (part of the Google family) this question: "could there be a connection between C-PTSD and hippocampal atrophy?" Gemini gave a generously large reply, from which I copy a snippet here because not everyone uses AI and the statement is well-worth being taken seriously. Gemini says:
The C-PTSD vs. Alzheimer's Distinction
While both C-PTSD and Alzheimer's disease involve hippocampal atrophy, the underlying pathologies and manifestation are distinct:
In Alzheimer's Disease: The atrophy is driven by neurodegenerative protein misfolding (amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tau tangles), leading to progressive, irreversible structural destruction of the medial temporal lobe.
In C-PTSD: The atrophy is primarily stress-induced and functional/structural remodeling rather than a classic neurodegenerative disease. Furthermore, research into neuroplasticity shows that hippocampal volume loss from trauma can sometimes be partially reversed or stabilized through successful therapy, stress reduction, and pharmacological intervention. (End of snippet from Gemini)
@A myALZteam Member: I agree that bilateral hippocampal atrophy is a major concern in someone who’s only 58, has APOE 3/4, and a strong family history of Alzheimer’s &/or other Dementias. You’re in North Carolina, so if you’re not currently being treated at an Alzheimer’s Center of Excellence, my strong recommendation would be to gather all of your test results plus a copy of your MRI images (etc.) on a CD, and get yourself a second opinion from one of the Neurologists at one of the Centers. Also, the next time an MRI is done, by anyone, insist on a Volumetric Report.
Oh my goodness, @A myALZteam Member! I just looked through your recent messages and am so sorry that I missed your post about that, and sorrier still that you’re having to go through that at all. You will certainly be in my heart and on my mind tomorrow. Truly. Sending prayers. 🙏 Please let us know how it goes.
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5 months after losing my honey, it’s very nice to feel like I might be of help in unraveling your mystery, @A myALZteam Member. Hugs.
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