| What is characteristics of dementia | This is characterized by dysphasia (difficulty with speech)
Dyspraxia (difficulty performing acts of daily living such as dressing, walking)
Agnosia (difficulty recognising objects)
Memory loss |
| During the course of what disease, what leads to death of nerve cells and brain tissue | Protein buildup in the brain to form structures called plaques and tangles
This leads to loss of neural connections between nerve cells and eventually death |
| Diagnosis of dementia | Multiple cognitive deficits (including amnesia)
Functional impairment
Clear consciousness
Change from previous level
Long duration ( >6 months ) |
| What are some MMSE example questions | What is the year, month, day, date and time
Repeat three items (apple, table, penny) immediately and after 2 minute delay
Spell ‘world’ backwards
What is this ? ( pen or watch )
Obey written instruction: “Close your eyes” |
| What are some investigations used in dementia | CT scan of the brain --> To rule out other causes of cognitive impairment such as tumour or stroke
MRI scan --> Better at identifying prion disease
Thyroid function tests Rule out hypothyroidism as a cause of a dementialike presentation
Urea and electrolytes Severe disturbances can cause cognitive impairment
Sodium and calcium are particularly important Liver function tests Metabolic causes in liver dysfunction
B12 Low levels can cause memory impairment and mood changes |
| Management of dementias | Replacement of low level neurotransmitters --> acetylcholinerase inhibitors
Secondary prevention of risk factors --> stop smoking e.g.
Anti-psychotics --> should be avoided since it can increase risk of seizures |
| What is the most age sensitive component of intelligence | Processing speed |
| What are the neuropsychology tests for dementia | MMSE
ACE-R
MOCA |
| What are the 5 cognitive domains | Memory
Language
Perception
Attention
Number
Praxis |
