New Treatments for Alzheimer's: What Docs in the ER Ought to Know

Alzheimer's disease is a growing concern, expected to affect 152 million people by 2050. Recently, new therapies, known as anti-amyloid treatments, have been approved. Unlike traditional options, these are infused every 2 to 5 weeks to slow down the disease. But with this progress comes a downside. These treatments sometimes lead to amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIAs). Think of ARIAs as little issues in the brain’s blood vessels, like swelling or tiny bleeds, that show up on MRI scans.

Patients with ARIAs may experience confusion, fatigue, headaches, or even seizures. Furthermore, these treatments complicate matters for stroke patients who need clot-busting medicines, making them more prone to bleeding. Emergency doctors should familiarize themselves with these treatments and be ready to spot and manage their potential side effects.

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