Diagnosis

The only way to completely diagnose Alzheimer’s disease is after the death of a patient when an autopsy of the brain is performed.




However, doctors can use a variety of tests to make a probable diagnosis of the disease.


Medical History and Physical Examination
The doctor will ask questions about the patient’s health history, including other medical conditions the patient has, recent or past illnesses, and progressive changes in mental function, behavior, or daily activities. The doctor will ask about use of prescription drugs and lifestyle factors, including diet and use of alcohol. The doctor will evaluate the patient’s hearing and vision, and check blood pressure and other physical signs. A neurological test will also be conducted to check the patient’s reflexes, coordination, and eye movement.

Other tests that doctors perform to make a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer's are the following:

·         Laboratory Tests

·         Neuropsychological Tests

·         Brain-Imaging Scans

 

 

 

 

Sources:

Alzheimer's Association. 19 Apr. 2011. Web. 22 Apr. 2011. <http://www.alz.org/index.asp>.

 

Simon, Harvey. "Alzheimer's Disease Background - Alzheimer's Disease Health Information - NY Times Health." Health News - The New York Times. 22 June 2010. Web. 16 Apr. 2011. <http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/alzheimers-disease/background.html>.