Client Story
How PHM engaged experts and personalized research to support James’ care.
When James, an active 50-year-old executive with a demanding career, began to have trouble remembering basic facts such as his co-workers’ names and simple addresses, he consulted a neurologist. Initial results of a PET-CT scan suggested he could be showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease. James sought assistance from PHM based on a recommendation from a family member who was a PHM client.
James’ PHM Personal Care Team coordinated further evaluation that suggested he may have a rare subtype of Alzheimer’s disease called Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA).
Then, the PHM team arranged for James to get a second opinion from one of the top Alzheimer’s experts in the country. After a comprehensive evaluation and testing, the diagnosis was confirmed. While the diagnosis wasn’t good news, having a leading expert confirm it helped James and his family know what to expect.
The PHM team advocated for additional support from speech and language and occupational therapists. His doctors recommended two drugs designed to slow disease progression. One came with a potential for serious side effects, so PHM helped coordinate genetic testing to determine whether James would be more at risk for them. Tests were negative, so he began the therapy with PHM closely monitoring him alongside his doctors.
After about five months on lecanemab, a routine MRI revealed signs of mild ARIA, so treatment was temporarily discontinued. While this was disappointing, James was glad to have had knowledge of this possibility before starting treatment. After a break from treatment, he was stable enough to restart a lower dose of lecanemab. His PHM Personal Care Team is closely monitoring him for any further side effects.
James’ PHM care team maintains regular communication with him, frequently monitors his condition, and continues to evaluate the latest developments in Alzheimer’s disease, including potential clinical trials.
To learn more about PCA from PHM’s experts, please read “Exploring a rare form of Alzheimer’s disease affecting younger individuals”.
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