Memory Disorder Study
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Think of it as a map of our memories. This MRI shows how our brain's work when we try to remember things, like where we parked our cars or where we left our keys. Dr. Brian Ott, a neurologist at Memorial Hospital, says, "Basically we are studying people who don't have Alzheimer's disease but have what's called mild cognitive impairment. It's a period where people are very forgetful but still functioning normally."
Dr. Ott is examining the effects of Alzheimer's drugs on people suffering from mild memory loss. In the study, participants undergo an MRI while taking memory tests. The red images highlight the portion of the brain being used to remember something. In a person with mild memory loss, there are more red patches. The participant is given a common Alzheimer's drug for two months and then comes back for another MRI, to see if the drugs have helped improve their memory.
Dr. Ott says, "It may be useful to use the medications to treat a wider range of people with memory impairment rather than people who have classical identified, advanced Alzheimer's disease."
So far, preliminary results indicate that might be the case which would give those forgetful folks another option. For more information on this memory disorder study you can call (401)729-3757.
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