[Brain imaging in cognitive disorders - from diagnosis to treatment and monitoring]

Brain imaging is essential in the diagnostic workup of cognitive disorders. Computed tomography (CT) is usually the first-line method due to accessibility and patient comfort, whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers higher diagnostic precision and is required before anti-amyloid therapy. MRI adds value by detecting microvascular pathology, enabling volumetric analysis, and ensuring safe monitoring of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). National Swedish MRI protocols and structured reporting templates support harmonized diagnostics and follow-up. Nuclear medicine methods are useful for complex cases to assess glucose metabolism, amyloid burden or dopamine transport function. With emerging treatment options for Alzheimer's disease, standardized imaging and close collaboration across specialties are essential for upscaling diagnostic routines and for safe and efficient care.