A recent study conducted by researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital has shed light on the connection between self-reported cognitive decline and the build-up of tau tangles in the brain, a characteristic feature of Alzheimer's disease. The findings underscore the significance of addressing memory concerns early on for effective intervention.

Involving 675 participants, the study utilized positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to detect the presence of tau and amyloid beta, two key markers associated with Alzheimer's disease. The results revealed a correlation between the accumulation of tau tangles and reports of cognitive decline from both the patients and their study partners.

The researchers emphasized that subjective reports from patients and their partners mirrored objective cognitive performance tests, further validating the importance of taking memory concerns seriously. Senior author Dr. Rebecca E. Amariglio, a clinical neuropsychologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, highlighted the significance of such reports in tracking disease severity even during the preclinical stage of Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Amariglio explained, "We now understand that changes in the brain due to Alzheimer's disease start well before patients show clinical symptoms detected by a doctor. There is increasing evidence that individuals themselves or a close family member may notice changes in memory, even before a clinical measure picks up evidence of cognitive impairment."

The study, led by first author Michalina F. Jadick, included participants from various ongoing studies focused on Alzheimer's disease, such as the Anti-Amyloid Treatment in Asymptomatic AD/Longitudinal Evaluation of Amyloid Risk (A4/LEARN) and Neurodegeneration studies, as well as the Harvard Aging Brain Study and affiliated studies. All participants were cognitively unimpaired individuals at risk but not yet diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

By analyzing data from the 675 participants, the researchers found that both amyloid and tau were associated with an increased self-reported decline in cognitive function. However, it is important to note that the study's conclusions were based on a predominantly white and highly educated group of participants. Future studies involving more diverse populations and longer-term follow-ups are required to better understand the broader impact of these findings.

Dr. Amariglio cautioned against jumping to conclusions regarding Alzheimer's disease solely based on changes in cognition. However, she stressed that concerns expressed by patients or their family members should not be dismissed, as these indications may serve as early warning signs warranting further investigation.

The study's authors hope that these findings will encourage individuals and their loved ones to seek medical evaluation if they notice any persistent memory issues. Early detection and intervention can play a crucial role in managing Alzheimer's disease and improving overall quality of life for those affected.

The study was a collaborative effort involving researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and other institutions. Co-authors of the study included Hannah Klinger, Rachel F. Buckley, Gad A. Marshall, Patrizia Vannini, Dorene M. Rentz, Keith A. Johnson, Reisa A. Sperling, Talia Robinson, and Michelle E. Farrell. The results of the study were published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.