Study mini mental state examination and computerised tomography of brain to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease

ABSTRACT

So far, in Viet Nam, there aren't systematic research on the role of psychological and imaging tests for diagnosis of AD. Objectives: To study the role of brain MMSE and CT findings in diagnosis of AD. Methods: 35 patients with AD were diagnosed according to criteria of ICD.10 and DSM.4; Descriptive, prospective and followed up investigation was applied. Results: MMSE could be used for all patients (100%), MMSE scores coresponded with dementia severity. Reduction in scores more than 3 points per year presented in 93.3%. On CT, general atrophy of brain presented in 100% patients, temporal lobe atrophy was seen in 65.7% of patients. The difference of brain atrophy level has been significant at all patients after 2.5 to 3 years follow up. Conclusion: MMSE was considered as appropriate test to measure dementia severity and to define AD. On CT, great speed of brain atrophy after 2.5 to 3 years follow up could confirm diagnosis of AD.