Title : Clinical correlation of vitamin B12 and tau imaging
Abstract:
Background: Tau-PET Scan measures brain tau deposition. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is related to cognitive
impairment. We analyzed the correlation of B12 levels to tau-PET imaging in a memory clinic.
Hypothesis: Tau-PET positivity correlates with lower B12 values in the clinic patients
Objectives: To assess the correlation of tau-PET positivity to B12 levels in memory clinic patients.
To evaluate a B12 level cut-off that translates optimally to tau-PET positivity.
Method: Retrospective observational chart review study of patients attending a memory clinic in Boston, MA, with B12 levels and tau-PET scan included for analysis. No stratification based on initial or final diagnosis, severity of cognitive impairment, or tracer used. Baseline B12 levels and a binary PET scan result were analyzed with covariates age, sex and race.
Analysis done on ‘R’ v. 2.4.0. Pearson correlation estimated B12 levels to tau-PET status. Kruskal Wallis/Chi square tests for relationship of age, sex, gender and education with B12 levels and tau-PET status. ROC analyses and sensitivity/specificity were obtained.
Results: Tau PET positivity did not correlate significantly with B12 levels (r= 0.034, 95%CI –0.44 to 0.493, p=0.89).
Conclusion: Tau PET does not correlate with B12 levels, possibly due to a ceiling effect in the mild impairment subjects.
