TRIADMultidimensional Clinical Profiles for Early Alzheimer's Disease Detection: Biological, Psychological and Social Factors

The TRIAD study aims to improve the early detection and understanding of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It combines blood-based biomarkers, neuro-imaging, neuro-psychology, and psychosocial factors, including the experiences of caregivers, to create a comprehensive view of the disease. The study aims to fill gaps in current knowledge, such as the lack of non-invasive tools for early detection and the limited understanding of how caregivers cope with AD in its various stages. The primary objectives include analyzing biological, psychological, and social factors at different stages of AD, examining the influence of these factors on the quality of life of patients and caregivers, and investigating the relationship between caregiver psychological well-being and patient cognitive functioning. Patients will undergo an initial clinical and neurological evaluation, followed by routine blood tests and structural neuroimaging investigations. When clinically indicated, amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) will also be performed. Patients will then complete a standardized neuropsychological test battery. Based on these results, each patient will be assigned to one of four diagnostic groups along the Alzheimer's disease continuum. After assignment to the clinical stage, patients will undergo the assessment of plasma biomarkers of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. In addition, patients will complete a series of self-report questionnaires assessing emotional symptoms, perceived stress, quality of life, and cognitive reserve. Concurrently, caregivers will be asked to complete selected self-report questionnaires evaluating caregiver burden, emotional symptoms, coping strategies, metacognitive beliefs, and quality of life.