International Work Group (IWG): Alignment Across Criteria

TL;DR

This paper compares the IWG and AA diagnostic criteria for Alzheimer's disease to highlight their similarities and differences in order to promote a unified definition.

Contribution

The paper provides a detailed comparison of the IWG and AA criteria, emphasizing the need for a unified definition of Alzheimer's disease.

Findings

The IWG and AA criteria share similarities in aims, co-pathology, brain reserve, and biomarker use.

Key differences exist in core questions, definitions, and interventions for Alzheimer's disease.

A unified definition is essential for advancing research and improving patient care.

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.