The process of investigation is to rule out or confirm dementia.
Following a referral from your healthcare professional the following takes place. It is important to obtain all previous examinations and tests prior to the visit if already done.
FIRST CONSULTATION
1. A concise history is taken from the patient.
2. A collateral history is also taken from a spouse, relative, friend etc if appropriate.
3. An assessment of the mental status of the patient.
4. An assessment by psychological testing.
5. A physical examination is also usually required.
6. A full explanation regarding the next stage of the investigation process.
It is important to emphasise that in a small number of patients, no further investigation is required but purely observation.
INVESTIGATIVE TESTS
1. Complete blood work up and urine testing (unless already done).
2. Radiological imaging usually an MRI. A chest x-ray may also be done at this time.
3. An electrocardiogram or ECG if appropriate.
4. EEG (Brainwave testing). (Only done if indicated)
5. A full neuropsychological assessment. This is one of the most important parts of the screening process.
Why are these tests done?
It must be remembered that there are other reasons why a person may show some of the symptoms but not have a dementia syndrome.
As previously stated, depression itself can in cases lead to a condition known as Depressive Pseudo Dementia. As early onset dementia can present differently than in older people it is important to rule out this mood change presentation.
Imaging and scans are done to rule out other causes such as space occupying lesions within the brain or a vascular cause.
A chest x-ray is often done to rule out any other disease process.
An ECG is often done to rule out a cardiac issue that has previously gone undetected.
As stated previously blood tests are done to rule out endocrine or metabolic disorders. Examples would be in conditions of the thyroid disorder or vitamin B12 deficiency. Blood tests also can be done to rule out an infective process.