Sex differences in amyloid PET in a large, real-world sample from the Imaging Dementia-Evidence for Amyloid Scanning (IDEAS) Study

Alzheimers Dement. 2025 May;21(5):e70304. doi: 10.1002/alz.70304.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: We examined sex effects on amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) in a large cohort of patients evaluated for cognitive complaints in a "real-world" specialty setting.

METHODS: We analyzed 10,361 amyloid PET scans (51% females) from the Imaging Dementia-Evidence for Amyloid Scanning Study. Amyloid positivity was defined by either local visual read or central PET processing and quantification (≥ 24.4 Centiloids). Sex differences were examined using multilinear regression and logistic regression adjusted for age, comorbidities, and other demographic and clinical covariates.

RESULTS: Females had higher rates of positive amyloid PET visual reads (63% vs. 59%, P < 0.001) and higher Centiloids (CLs; median 48.7 vs. 36.8, p < 0.001). On logistic regression, females had higher odds ratios (ORs) for positive amyloid PET (visual read OR 1.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11-1.31; CL threshold-based OR 1.37, 95% CI: 1.26-1.49; both p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION: Females with cognitive impairment showed higher amyloid PET positivity and greater amyloid burden. Further research is needed to explore mechanisms and treatment implications.

HIGHLIGHTS: Females exhibited higher rates of amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) positivity and higher amyloid burden than males. These sex effects were found in patients with both mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Females also had higher rates of dementia and amnestic MCI, while males had higher rates of non-amnestic MCI and more cholinesterase inhibitor use.

PMID:40415175 | DOI:10.1002/alz.70304