What is confirmed at autopsy in patients with Alzheimer's disease?

The presence of neurofibrillary tangles and senile plaques is a hallmark finding in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease at autopsy. Neurofibrillary tangles are composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein, which disrupts the normal functioning of neurons and contributes to neurodegeneration. Senile plaques, primarily made up of beta-amyloid peptides, accumulate between neurons and are associated with cellular dysfunction, inflammation, and loss of synaptic connections. The identification of these features not only confirms the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease but also provides insight into the pathological processes that contribute to the cognitive decline characteristic of this condition. Their presence is critical for understanding the progression of the disease and can be essential for developing targeted treatments.