John Ikechi Nwankwo and How Neuroradiology is Saving Lives

Neuroradiology is a quickly evolving science with the power to revolutionize the care of many serious illnesses, including Alzheimer’s and aneurysms. Diagnostic radiology of the head, neck, and spine can help to trace problems within the body and point to possible surgical solutions. New York neuroradiologists like John Ikechi Nwankwo are poised to help patients understand their conditions and to find exciting new paths for treatment.

One of the greatest medical concerns for Chelsea residents is the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease. The sixth leading cause of death in the United States, Alzheimer’s affects 5.7 million Americans. The portion of the population affected is projected to quadruple over the next 50 years. This heartbreaking disease robs seniors of their memories and their ability to connect with loved ones. This disease affects not only the patient but also the family, with serious issues arising for the family caregivers.

Previously, Alzheimer’s could only be definitively diagnosed upon the death of the patient. Neuroradiology has the potential to scan the brain non-invasively and to determine where structural changes are occurring, making it possible to achieve an accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s before death. This could impact the treatment of the disease, allowing the trial of Alzheimer’s-specific medications to possibly ease the symptoms. With earlier diagnosis, the patient’s health and comfort can be maximized and the family may be better prepared for the future.

Chelsea residents who have family members with suspected Alzheimer’s can be directed toward neuroradiologists by their neurology specialists. The two methods of scanning the brain for Alzheimer’s are MRI or magnetic resonance imaging and PET or positron emission tomography.

MRI is able to detect changes in various areas of the brain. The brain shrinks normally as a patient ages, but Alzheimer’s causes it to shrink more quickly and in different areas than normal aging. Neuroradiology is able to detect shrinkage in areas such as the hippocampus, which regulates memory.

PET is a different type of scan, and it can be useful for determining how glucose is used by the brain. This can help doctors to judge the overall health of the brain tissue. PET scans rely on the injection of a small amount of a radioactive solution with glucose, but they require far less radiation than comparable tests like the CT scan. The PET scanner provides images of the brain and allows the neuroradiologist to judge how well the patient’s brain is using glucose. A decrease in brain metabolism can indicate Alzheimer’s disease.

PET tests are able to differentiate patients with Alzheimer’s from patients with other forms of dementia. This can help doctors better direct their treatments and provide the family with accurate information about their loved one’s health. The PET scan to detect Alzheimer’s is under consideration to be covered by Medicare by the Health Care Financing Administration. This will greatly expand the number of families who are able to afford this advanced technique to diagnose their loved ones.

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is devastating to a family, but many people believe that knowledge helps them to deal with its effects. Through techniques like the MRI and PET scans, neuroradiologists are able to provide loved ones with diagnostic information that could change the course of treatment. Neuroradiologists like John Ikechi Nwankwo have the potential to change the course of Alzheimer’s treatment and to bring family members peace of mind.

Neuroradiology presents an exciting change in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and other diseases of dementia. Through this advanced science, many patients in Chelsea could be helped each year. Working in concert with neurologists, neuroradiologists bring cutting-edge techniques to the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.