Brain MRI for the diagnosis of dementia in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol of diagnostic utility and imaging findings.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The utility of brain MRI in dementia diagnosis offers critical insights into structural brain changes, such as hippocampal and thalamic atrophy, which are hallmark features of Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease-related dementias . However, its use, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), is affected by limited accessibility. This protocol outlines a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the diagnostic utility, feasibility and challenges of integrating brain MRI for dementia diagnosis in LMICs.

Methods and analysis

The review follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols with a priori eligibility criteria and is registered in PROSPERO. Searches (from inception to September 2025) will be run in

SUBMITTER: Nassanga R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12625966 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature