For decades, the early and accurate detection of dementia has been one of neurology's greatest challenges. However, a recent breakthrough from Mayo Clinic could radically transform the landscape. Researchers from the Department of Neurology have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) tool called StateViewer, capable of identifying nine different types of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease using a single, widely available brain scan.

According to a study published on July 2, 2025, in Neurology (American Academy of Neurology), the AI demonstrated an 88% accuracy rate in correctly classifying dementia types in tested patients, significantly outperforming traditional methods in both speed and precision. In comparative trials, StateViewer doubled the speed of clinical analysis and was up to three times more accurate than conventional diagnostic approaches, which typically rely on multiple tests, prolonged observation, and subjective clinical interpretation.

What makes this tool innovative is its ability to detect subtle brain activity patterns often invisible to the human eye and associate them with specific forms of dementia such as frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, among others.

“The true power of this tool lies not only in its diagnostic accuracy but also in its potential to guide personalized treatment strategies from the earliest stages,” said Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford, neurologist and lead researcher at Mayo Clinic. In a clinical setting, this translates into more informed decision-making, earlier intervention, and better functional outcomes for patients.

This breakthrough comes at a crucial time. According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people currently live with dementia worldwide, and that number is expected to surpass 150 million by 2050.

StateViewer is still undergoing large-scale clinical validation, but its implementation is already emerging as a paradigm shift in the diagnostic approach to neurodegenerative disorders.