Overview

In order to generate more sensitive and specific MR imaging techniques for diseases such as dementia, it is important to understand the
entire spectrum of these diseases, from their molecular mechanisms (bench) to their varied manifestations in humans (bedside). In this
two hour course, the MR imaging of prion dementia and Alzheimer’s dementia will be explored.  The underlying molecular and microscopic
mechanisms will be presented, followed by current state-of-the-art clinical imaging techniques, followed by new advanced animal imaging
studies that will present new MR techniques which may eventually come into clinical use.

Educational Objectives                                                                                                                                               

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
•  describe the basic molecular and cellular etiologies of prion disease and Alzheimer’s disease;
•  explain the limitations of current state-of-the-art clinical imaging techniques for the diagnosis and prognosis of these forms of dementia;  and
•  list several new MR techniques which hold promise for future diagnosis and prognosis of prion disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Audience Description