Fact 2: The Complex Diagnostic Process for CAA
Diagnosing CAA isn’t straightforward. It’s a complex process involving multiple steps, from clinical evaluation to imaging studies and, in rare cases, brain biopsy. The complexity of this process is due to the disease’s nature and its silent progression.
The first step in diagnosing CAA typically involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. The physician looks for signs of neurological deficits and asks about any possible symptoms, even though the disease might not present clear symptoms in the early stages.
Next comes imaging studies, like MRI or CT scans, to visualize the brain’s structure and detect any abnormalities. These imaging tests can reveal signs of hemorrhage or white matter changes associated with CAA. But even these advanced imaging modalities can’t definitively diagnose CAA.
In rare cases, a brain biopsy might be required to confirm CAA. This invasive procedure involves removing a small piece of brain tissue for microscopic examination. It can definitively diagnose CAA by detecting amyloid-beta protein deposits within the brain’s blood vessels.
The complexity of diagnosing CAA underscores the need for improved diagnostic tools. As we advance our understanding of the disease, the hope is to streamline the diagnostic process, making it less invasive and more precise. (2)
