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Contents
  • Neuroimaging Techniques
  • Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
  • The Hachinski Ischemic Score

How Do Doctors Test for Vascular Dementia?

How Do Doctors Test for Vascular Dementia?

Why It Matters

Testing for vascular dementia involves various methods to pinpoint the cause of cognitive decline. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Contents
  • Neuroimaging Techniques
  • Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
  • The Hachinski Ischemic Score

Neuroimaging Techniques

MRI is preferred for detecting signs of small vessel disease, such as microbleeds and white matter changes. These images help identify unrecognized brain injuries that contribute to dementia. For some patients, CT scans may be used due to cost or contraindications.

Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing

Cognitive tests like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) are used to detect cognitive impairment. Neuropsychological testing further evaluates cognitive function, focusing on executive abilities. These tests help differentiate vascular dementia from other forms of dementia.
Vascular dementia is a type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. Testing involves neuroimaging and cognitive assessments to identify brain injuries and cognitive impairments.

The Hachinski Ischemic Score

This score uses medical history and symptoms to assess the likelihood of a vascular component in dementia. A score of 7 or higher indicates a strong vascular contribution. It's a valuable tool for clinicians in diagnosing vascular dementia.

FAQs

What imaging is used for vascular dementia?

MRI is most commonly used to detect brain changes.

How is cognitive function tested?

Tests like MoCA assess cognitive impairment.

What is the Hachinski Ischemic Score?

It's a tool to evaluate the vascular contribution to dementia.

Can CT scans be used?

Yes, CT scans are an alternative to MRI when needed.

The Bottom Line

Timely testing is key to managing vascular dementia effectively.
Curious about testing? Talk to Doctronic for more on vascular dementia diagnostics.
Additional References
  1. Smith EE, Saposnik G, Biessels GJ, et al. Prevention of stroke in patients with silent cerebrovascular disease. Stroke 2017; 48:e44.
  2. Nasreddine ZS, Phillips NA, Bédirian V, et al. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA: A brief screening tool. J Am Geriatr Soc 2005; 53:695.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.