1293 – Informing About Pre-clinical Alzheimer's Disease In The Biomarker Era: Knowledge About The Disease As a Mediating Factor

Abstract

Introduction

Biomarker studies showed that the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) can be done already years before any clinical symptoms appear. Considering the lack of effective treatments, this scientific development becomes problematic in clinical practice.

Objective

To examine whether the level of knowledge about AD mediates potential wish for diagnosis to be revealed in a pre-clinical phase.

Method

The Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS; Carpenter et al., 2009) has been completed by 68 healthy (with no cognitive impairment) elderly (age 62-75), 49 caregivers (close relatives) of AD patients (age 42-74) and 96 medical students sample. After ADKS completion all participants were presented a leaflet showing possible tests they could underwent (PET-based amyloid imaging, CSF-based amyloid and tau measurements and genetic tests) to establish a possible AD diagnosis in its pre-clinical phase. Attitudes about possible AD disclosure were measured using semi-structured questionnaire.

Results

A wish to AD diagnosis disclosure, independently of the clinical scenario presented (presence of symptoms, close family member suffering from AD) and the group investigated, was higher among those who scored low on ADKS scale. AD relatives, although interested in possible prevention strategies, were highly hesitant about revealing they might have AD themselves.

Conclusion

The level of knowledge about AD may be associated with the decision to undergo diagnostic procedures to establish a pre-clinical diagnosis of AD. Lack of effective intervention probably determines potential patients attitudes.