While it is true that no single test can accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s disease in a living patient, in recent years a variety of tests and examination techniques have been developed that allow doctors to recognize some of the diseases earliest markers. Doctors and specialists are becoming more skilled at analyzing the results of the most commonly used tests and assessments.
Often the tests that are given when Alzheimer’s is suspected are actually used to rule out other possible disorders and diseases that have symptoms that are similar in nature. Some of the commonly used Alzheimer’s tests and assessments include:
- Reviewing a thorough medical history of the patient and the patient’s family history
- Assessments of the physical and mental state of the patient
- General physical exam
- Psychological assessments and testing
- Neurological examinations and assessment
- Lab tests, including urinalysis and blood tests
- MRI and X-rays
- EEG (Electroencephalogram)
- Lumbar puncture test
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
- Clock Drawing Test (CDT)
- Mini-Cog
Remember, the results of one or two tests are typically not enough to determine Alzheimer’s risk or make a diagnosis. Often, it takes quite a few tests before an accurate determination can be made. While testing, do your best to find relaxing activities and try to keep your mind off the possibilities as much as possible.
