The Alzheimer's Association reports that Alzheimer's disease affects more than 5 million Americans and is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. The condition first was recognized by a German physician in the early 1900s. The disease attacks brain cells resulting in memory loss as well as other cognitive problems. The progressive disease eventually leads to death, and no cure presently exists. The Alzheimer's Association reports that a diagnosis can be determined with more than 90 percent certainty by a skilled physician.

Physical/Medical History

A diagnosis of Alzheimer's probably will take several types of tests that might take more than one day. The diagnosis usually will begin with a primary care physician who will conduct a physical and review medical history. During the physical, the physician will evaluate blood pressure, temperature and pulse. The doctor also will check respiratory functions as well as take blood and urine samples. These tests might be helpful to diagnose other conditions that might be related to loss of memory. During the medical history review, the doctor will ask questions about past medical conditions, use of prescription drugs, and if any family members have suffered from Alzheimer's or a similar disorder.

Mental-status tests

A mental-status test will help in determining sharpness of a patient's mind. A mini-mental state exam is the most common mental-status test. Patients are asked a series of routine questions, such as providing the current date, repeating phrases or counting backward. The Alzheimer's Association states that the highest score possible in a mini-mental state exam is 30. A score between 20 and 24 indicates mild dementia, 13 to 20 implies moderate dementia, and a score of 12 or less suggests severe dementia.

Neurological Exam

During the physical, a neurological exam will be conducted to determine the role of the brain and nervous system to rule out Alzheimer's. The neurological exam most likely will consist of testing reflexes, dexterity, muscle tone, eye movement and talking ability.

Brain Imaging

A brain-imaging scan can help provide insight into diagnosing Alzheimer's. Brain imaging consists of structural and functional imaging. A structural image, such as an MRI, offers information about the form and amount of brain tissue. The structural scan aids in eliminating brain tumors or blood clots as the cause of symptoms. A functional image determines the functionality of brain cells by showing how vigorously cells consume oxygen or sugar.

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Alzheimer's diagnosis importance

Steps to diagnosing Alzheimer's