Evaluation of a visual interpretation method for tau‐PET with 18F‐flortaucipir

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Positron emission tomography targeting tau (tau‐PET) is a promising diagnostic tool for the identification of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Currently available data rely on quantitative measures, and a visual interpretation method, critical for clinical translation, is needed. Methods We developed a visual interpretation method for 18F‐flortaucipir tau‐PET and tested it on 274 individuals (cognitively normal controls, patients with mild cognitive impairment [MCI], AD dementia, and non‐AD diagnoses). Two readers interpreted 18F‐flortaucipir PET using two complementary indices: a global visual score and a visual distribution pattern. Results Global visual scores were reliable, correlated with global cortical 18F‐flortaucipir standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) and were associated with clinical diagnosis and amyloid status. The AD‐like 18F‐flortaucipir pattern had good sensitivity and specificity to identify amyloid‐positive patients with AD dementia or MCI. Discussion This 18F‐flortaucipir visual rating scheme is associated with SUVR quantification, clinical diagnosis, and amyloid status, and constitutes a promising approach to tau measurement in clinical settings.

Keywords

• Alzheimer's disease
• flortaucipir
• qualitative assessment
• tau positron emission tomography
• visual assessment