New biological treatments for Alzheimer’s disease have been approved over the past 2-3 years, first in the United States and subsequently in Europe, and  Israel. These treatments slow the progression of the disease by approximately 25%. The treatments are with antibodies against a misfolded protein called amyloid. In its misfolded form it forms deposits in the cortex of the brain and helps Alzheimer’s disease progress. 

The antibodies are given as an intravenous infusion. They bind with the misfolded protein and cause it to be cleared away from the tissue. This is not a cure, but rather slowing the rate of worsening, and extending the time the patient remains close to the current level of severity. 

The treatments are appropriate only for individuals who are in the early stages of their disease, provided it was diagnosed by a biological test of the brain (an amyloid PET CT) or of the spinal fluid. At this time a blood test is not sufficient in order to be eligible for these treatments, but this situation may change in future. There are additional requirements to determine eligibility for these treatments. 

Receiving the treatment requires an investment of time and effort on the part of the patient and on the part of a “treatment partner,” and diligent follow up to avoid or minimize the occurrence or severity of side effects that can occur when giving antibodies against abnormal deposits in the brain. Even though most patients will not encounter these side effects — all patients need to be monitored diligently.

As of now, the treatments are not covered by “Sal Habriut” – the list of medications that public insurers are required to pay for.

If you would like to find out if these treatments are for you – I will be happy to see you in my clinic  072-330-5618. 

Neurology is the medical specialty that deals with the health and disease of the brain, the spinal cord, the nerves of the head and the limbs, and muscles.

Common neurological diseases are stroke, dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease), headaches, peripheral neuropathies. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders.

Rare neurological diseases include ALS, Guillain Barre Syndrome and its chronic variant CIDP, myasthenia gravis and brain tumors.

Dr. Armon will want to know about the reasons that brought you to the consultation, about past and active medical issues and about your medications. He will then perform a neurological exam appropriate to the reason for the consultation.

The result of the initial consultation will likely be a plan for additional tests to sort out the various possible explanations for the presenting symptoms, and for a follow-up visit to understand what the most likely explanation for the situation might be (“the diagnosis”) and to discuss its implications.

Occasionally, the diagnosis may have already been made, or may be clear at the beginning of the first visit, and it may be possible to dedicate most of the time to discussing implications.

Dr. Armon’s initial consultations extend for one hour. If additional time is needed to discuss findings and implications – an early follow-up visit can be scheduled at the end of the initial consultation. This may be conducted via video.

House calls are expensive, but one can achieve a similar effect through Teleneurology – a house call mediated by video.

Teleneurology takes place in the comfort of your own home, and saves you travel costs, travel time, and the inevitable search for convenient parking.

You can involve family members of your choice, whether with you or elsewhere, bringing them to the visit via video.

It makes sense to prepare for your Teleneurology visit, to maximize its benefit.

For additional details and to schedule a Telemedicine consultation please contact Dr. Armon at neuroforu@gmail.com