🧠 The Scan That Could Change Everything: Why You Should Ask About an Amyloid PET Scan for a Loved One Showing Signs of Memory Loss
- Caroline Boynton
- May 2
- 2 min read
If someone in your life is starting to forget things, seem confused, or just isn't acting like themselves, it's natural to worry about Alzheimer's. But here's what many people don’t realize: Not all dementia is Alzheimer's- and not all memory loss is irreversible. An amyloid PET scan is a powerful imaging tool that can help confirm whether Alzheimer's is actually present, or if something else might be going on.
What Is an Amyloid PET Scan?
An amyloid PET scan uses a small amount of a safe, radioactive tracer to show whether beta-amyloid plaques- one of the key signs of Alzheimer’s- have built up in the brain.
If amyloid is present, Alzheimer’s is likely, but not certain.
If no amyloid is found, doctors may need to look for other causes of cognitive decline- some of which are treatable or even reversible.
The scan is non-invasive, takes about 30–60 minutes, and provides more diagnostic clarity than memory tests or MRIs alone.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just a nice-to-have, it can dramatically change the course of care.
A review of nearly 6,000 patients showed amyloid PET scans have a 90% sensitivity and 80% specificity for detecting Alzheimer’s.
In clinical studies, amyloid PET imaging led to a change in diagnosis in 1 out of 3 patients, helping doctors better tailor care.
Compared to autopsy-confirmed diagnoses, PET scans with tracers like florbetaben showed 98% accuracy in detecting amyloid plaques.
Why It’s Especially Important for Older Adults
Memory changes are often assumed to be “just aging” or Alzheimer’s, but there are several other conditions that can look almost identical, including:
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) – which is treatable with surgery
Vascular dementia – caused by blood flow issues
Medication effects, nutritional deficiencies, or even depression
A clear diagnosis can make all the difference in how your loved one is treated- and whether there's potential for improvement.
When Should You Bring It Up?
You may want to ask a neurologist or primary care doctor about an amyloid PET scan if:
The diagnosis feels uncertain or doesn’t fully align with symptoms
Symptoms progressed quickly or unexpectedly
You're being told it's “too late” for treatment without clear evidence
You're exploring clinical trials or more advanced therapies
Final Thoughts
An amyloid PET scan can’t answer every question- but it can give families clarity when it matters most. If you’re feeling unsure or like something’s being overlooked, don’t hesitate to speak up. Advocating for one more test could be the step that changes everything.
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