GREENSBORO—Doctors in Greensboro are the first in the state to use a new method for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

The technology is an imaging agent called Florbetapir. Physicians use it to identify brain Amyloid Plaque, a sign of Alzheimer's that they used to only be able to find in an autopsy. They say their findings could put the spotlight on Greensboro as a research hub.

“We'll be a center for excellence here in Alzheimer's imaging and diagnosis and I think that's a great benefit," said Dr. Stewart Edmunds.

Doctors say this will allow them to start treatment at earlier stages when it may be more effective. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 5.4 million Americans have Alzheimer’s. There is no cure.