Comparing the Classification Accuracy and Spatial Distribution of Diffusion MRI and PET in Alzheimer’s Disease

Motivation: Currently, MRI does not provide AD-specific metrics while PET has AD-specific tracers for amyloid-beta and tau. Diffusion MRI-derived metrics may supply additional information on AD pathology and simplify clinical management. Goal(s): To determine if the changes in diffusion MR are related to amyloid, tau, metabolic AD pathology assessed by PET. Approach: We used existing image database for AD patients and controls that has multi-shell diffusion MRI and AV45, tau, FDG PET. A multi-compartment diffusion model was used to assess disease pathology. Results: Decreased restricted diffusion is associated with increased tau and decreased metabolism. Impact: Accurate diagnosis and monitoring disease progression of AD patients using diffusion MRI will improve clinical management of AD patients. Particularly, the AD patients undergoing drug therapy and regular MRI scans will benefit.