A systematic review and meta-analysis of (18)F-labeled amyloid imaging in Alzheimer's disease.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:Amyloid imaging using fluorine 18-labeled tracers florbetapir, florbetaben, and flutemetamol has recently been reported in Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS:We systematically searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant studies published from January 1980 to March 2014. Studies comparing imaging findings in AD and normal controls (NCs) were pooled in a meta-analysis, calculating pooled weighted sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (OR) using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. RESULTS:Nineteen studies, investigating 682 patients with AD, met inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis demonstrated a sensitivity of 89.6%, a specificity of 87.2%, and an OR of 91.7 for florbetapir in differentiating AD patients from NCs, and a sensitivity of 89.3%, a specificity of 87.6%, and a diagnostic OR of 69.9 for florbetaben. There were insufficient data to complete analyses for flutemetamol. CONCLUSIONS:Results suggest favorable sensitivity and specificity of amyloid imaging with fluorine 18-labeled tracers in AD. Prospective studies are required to determine optimal imaging analysis methods and resolve outstanding clinical uncertainties.

SUBMITTER: Yeo JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4876886 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature