Until recently, Alzheimer’s disease was diagnosed largely on the pattern of symptoms, cognitive testing and the exclusion of other causes. A confident diagnosis often took time, and in the earlier stages it could be difficult to distinguish Alzheimer’s disease from other causes of memory change.
That has changed. It is now possible to look directly for the biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease, which can support an earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Three tests are increasingly used, and Dr Tina can advise which, if any, is appropriate for you.
Not everyone with memory concerns needs these tests. Dr Tina will take a history, examine you, review your cognitive testing and arrange standard investigations first. Where a biomarker test would add useful information, she will discuss the options with you, including what a result would and would not tell you.
