Expert: Paula Damgaard - 11/4/2004

Question
How does one find out if they have Alzheimers disease
or regular aging of the brain that makes one senile?
My MD suggest I go to a neurologist and get a MRI. MRI's are expensive as you know and would it be able to tell the difference in reference to my question? It is my understanding that only an autopsy can give
an answer to Alzheimers. Sincerely, Tina Potts

Answer
Hi Tina, The correct title for Alzheimer's disease is "Senile dementia of the Alzheimer's Type".   Regular aging does not cause one to be senile or have Alzheimer's disease.  Senility is just another word for dementia.  

I would suggest you see a neurologist also, but make sure it is one that deals with memory problems.  You are right that the only way to get a 100% diagnosis for AD is at autopsy. But now with the knowledge that we have we are able to get between 90-95% acuracy.  

In my clinic we start by having our patients have a full battery of Neuropsych testing, this is a four hour battery of tests which test all areas of the brain to see what is working and what isn't.  Then we have the patient come in to see the neurologist, and depending on the results of the tests and the exam that the neurologist does during his exam will decide whether or not an MRI or CAT scan needs to be done.  We may also draw blood samples.

Based on all of that we come to a diagnosis.  The MRI/CAT scan is done to make sure that there isn't anything in the brain that could be causing the memory problem, such as a tumor, or stroke.

All of these things are expensive but Medicare covers most of the cost and if it gives you a diagnosis and treatment starts earlier, it would be the best in the long run.

I hope this answers your question.  Please feel free to ask again if I haven't answered it enough for you. Have a good weekend.  Paula