Teaching Points
- Dementia is a disorder that is characterized by impairment of memory and at least one other cognitive domain (aphasia, apraxia, agnosia or executive functioning). There must be a decline from previous level of function that is severe enough to interfere with daily function and independence
- There are many causes of dementia, though Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia are the commonest
- Initial assessment of a patient thought to be dementing should include a systematic search for a reversible cause
- Imaging has a role in assessing for tumours, haematomas and hydrocephalus which may be treated. These may be visualised on contrast enhanced CT of the brain
- MRI, SPECT and PET modalities have a role in certain circumstances, after consultation with a specialist
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