Alzheimer's Association Workgroup: Alignment Across Criteria

TL;DR

This paper compares two major Alzheimer's diagnostic criteria sets to highlight their similarities and differences for better patient care and research alignment.

Contribution

The paper systematically outlines key similarities and differences between IWG and AA criteria for Alzheimer's disease.

Findings

The IWG and AA criteria share common goals in AD clinical research and biomarker use.

Differences exist in core question definitions, diagnosis approaches, and intervention strategies.

A unified Alzheimer's definition is crucial for advancing research and improving patient outcomes.

Abstract

The IWG and AA diagnostic criteria are major references in the Alzheimer's domain. Although they share analogies, some key differences should be recognized.

The original IWG 2024 JAMA Neurology and AA 2024 Alzheimers Dement papers will be used as the major data references.

I will outline the similarities and differences between the IWG and the AA criteria for Alzheimer's disease from the point of view of the former. I will discuss similarities regarding: Aim of clinical research on AD and other cognitive disorders, Role of co‐pathology, Role of brain reserve, Biomarker use, Indication for anti‐β‐amyloid, Contra‐indication for anti‐β‐amyloid, and Health care delivery model. I will discuss differences regarding: Core question, Scientific discourse, Knowledge source, Definition of AD, Diagnosis of AD, and Interventions for AD.

The differences between the two sets of criteria are not “just semantics”. A unified definition of AD is essential to advance the field and improve patient care.