Understanding ARIA

WHAT IS ARIA? 

• Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA) are side effects that may occur in patients receiving monoclonal antibody intravenous infusions for Alzheimer’s disease. 

• ARIA is detected through brain imaging (MRI) and is categorized into two types:  

•  ARIA-E (Edema): Swelling in the brain.  

• ARIA-H (Hemosiderin deposition): Small areas of bleeding in the brain.  

  

WHY GENETIC TESTING MATTERS  

• Knowing your ApoE 4 status can help your healthcare provider evaluate your risk of ARIA and guide treatment decisions.  

• The risk of ARIA varies depending on your genetic profile and other factors. The ApoE ε4 gene plays a significant role:  

• ApoE 4 Homozygote (two copies of E4 allele):  

• • Highest risk of ARIA.  

• • Approximately 30-40% of patients may experience ARIA, with most cases being asymptomatic or mild.  

• ApoE 4 Heterozygote (one copy of the E4 allele):  

• • Moderate risk of ARIA.  

• • Around 20-25% of patients may experience ARIA.  

• Non-carriers (no copies of Apo E4 allele):  

• • Lowest risk of ARIA.  

• • About 10-15% of patients may experience ARIA. 

 

ARIA SEVERITY  

• Severe ARIA:  

• • Rare - occurs in approximately 1-2% of patients. 

• • More likely in ApoE ε4 homozygotes.  

• Mild to Moderate ARIA:  

• • More Common - occurs in approximately 10-20% of patients. 

• • Often detected on MRI without symptoms.  

  

SYMPTOMS OF ARIA 

• Most ARIA cases have no symptoms.   

• Symptomatic ARIA:  

• • Occurs in 5-10% of patients. 

• • Symptoms 

• • • Headache 

• • • Confusion,  

• • • Dizziness 

• • • Nausea 

• • • Vision changes 

• • • Seizures. 

• • Call your provider promptly if you experience any of these symptoms.   

  

 ARIA MANAGEMENT 

• Monitoring:  

• • Routine MRI scans are conducted before starting treatment and periodically during therapy to detect ARIA early.  

• Treatment Adjustments:  

• • If ARIA is detected, your doctor may temporarily stop or adjust the treatment dosage.  

• Symptom Management:  

• • Symptomatic ARIA may require additional medical interventions to alleviate symptoms.  

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS  

• ARIA is a potential side effect of monoclonal antibody treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.   

• Discuss risks and benefits with your provider.  Risks and benefits are based your ApoE ε4 genetic profile and overall health.   

• Regular monitoring and prompt communication with your healthcare provider ensure the best outcomes.