The Role of Tissue Biopsy in Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease: Histological Perspectives

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological condition characterized by memory impairment, cognitive deterioration, and alterations in behavior, becoming the primary cause of dementia worldwide. The incidence is rising, primarily due to aging demographics, with around 36 million new cases each year and an economic impact surpassing US$600 billion. Alzheimer's disease can be categorized into various types, including inherited, sporadic, early-onset, late-onset, and those characterized by fast cognitive decline. Timely diagnosis is crucial for enhancing the quality of life and minimizing treatment expenses. Alzheimer's disease diagnosis often depends on clinical evaluations and neuroimaging methods, including MRI and PET scans, to identify amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain. Cognitive assessment instruments, like the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), are employed to assess cognitive function. Notwithstanding progress in diagnostic techniques, obstacles persist in identifying early-stage cognitive loss and distinguishing Alzheimer's disease from other forms of dementia. The escalating burden of Alzheimer's disease underscores the necessity for ongoing research into better diagnostic and treatment strategies.