Identifying differences between Alzheimer's, Lewy Body Dementia, and Parkinson's Disease

Distinguishing Between Alzheimer's Disease, Lewy Body Dementia, and Parkinson's Disease

Observational Ohio State University · NCT03019757

This study is trying to tell apart Alzheimer's, Lewy Body dementia, and Parkinson's Disease by looking at brain scans, tests, and samples from people with these conditions.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment76 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorOhio State University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Columbus, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT03019757 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to differentiate between Alzheimer's disease, Lewy Body dementia, and Parkinson's Disease by analyzing various clinical, neuropsychological, and neuroimaging data. Participants will undergo a series of evaluations including structural and functional MRIs, daTscans, and PET scans, along with neuropsychological testing and polysomnography. The study will also involve collecting cerebrospinal fluid and genetic samples to enhance diagnostic accuracy. A responsible study partner will assist in gathering behavioral and functional measures to support the findings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy Body dementia, or Parkinson's Disease who meet specific cognitive and health criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with other medical conditions that complicate dementia assessment or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for patients with these neurodegenerative conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using neuroimaging and neuropsychological assessments to differentiate between these conditions, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Subjects must meet the standard clinical criteria of the syndromes of interest
* All subjects must have enough cognitive abilities to complete study procedures, which will be operationally defined as having a Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score greater or equal to 10.
* Subjects must be on stable cognitive and psychoactive medication regimen for the preceding four weeks of enrollment.
* Subjects must have a responsible study partner that either lives with them or is in regular contact with them at least 4 out of 7 days per week.
* Subjects must have visual and auditory acuity adequate for testing.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any other condition (other than the primary diagnosis), which in the opinion of the investigators might contribute to the syndrome of dementia or complicate its assessment.
* active medical disorder that could preclude participation in this protocol
* Women who are pregnant or are breast feeding
* severe renal impairment as defined by glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 30 (may have increased radiation exposure with the DaTscan).
* Subjects in whom English is not the 1st language
* Subjects with educational level less than 12 years
* Subjects who have ever participated in an experimental study with an amyloid targeting agent unless it can be documented that the subject received only placebo during the course of the trial.

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Alzheimer's DiseaseLewy Body DementiaParkinson's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.