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Open Access 01-12-2014 | Review

Quantitative neuropathological assessment to investigate cerebral multi-morbidity

Authors: Johannes Attems, Janna H Neltner, Peter T Nelson

Published in: Alzheimer's Research & Therapy | Issue 9/2014

Abstract

The aging brain is characterized by the simultaneous presence of multiple pathologies, and the prevalence of cerebral multi-morbidity increases with age. To understand the impact of each subtype of pathology and the combined effects of cerebral multi-morbidity on clinical signs and symptoms, large clinico-pathological correlative studies have been performed. However, such studies are often based on semi-quantitative assessment of neuropathological hallmark lesions. Here, we discuss some of the new methods for high-throughput quantitative neuropathological assessment. These methods combine increased quantitative rigor with the added technical capacity of computers and networked analyses. There are abundant new opportunities - with specific techniques that include slide scanners, automated microscopes, and tissue microarrays - and also potential pitfalls. We conclude that quantitative and digital neuropathologic approaches will be key resources to further elucidate cerebral multi-morbidity in the aged brain and also hold the potential for changing routine neuropathologic diagnoses.

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Title: Quantitative neuropathological assessment to investigate cerebral multi-morbidity
Authors: Johannes Attems
Janna H Neltner
Peter T Nelson
Publication date: 01-12-2014
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Alzheimer's Research & Therapy / Issue 9/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1758-9193
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13195-014-0085-y

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Quantitative neuropathological assessment to investigate cerebral multi-morbidity

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