Structural imaging in dementia with Lewy bodies: the potential of multivariate data analysis

Structural imaging has a limited role in current diagnostic criteria for dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), possibly since overt brain atrophy is uncommon in this disorder. Multivariate data analysis is promising in this context due to its superiority to detect subtle brain changes. This systematic review reports multivariate studies of structural imaging data in DLB. Preliminary evidence shows the capacity of structural imaging in discriminating DLB patients from Alzheimer's disease patients and healthy controls. Ongoing global initiatives will change statistical possibilities in DLB. Multivariate data analysis in DLB is an emerging field, and its use is encouraged.