A definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) requires histopathologic examination which is rarely done. Which tests will the nurse expect to be ordered to rule out other disorders?
Explanation
• While laboratory tests are not helpful in confirming a diagnosis of AD, some tests are indicated to exclude contributing secondary causes.
• The DSM-5 recommends MRI of the brain to rule out cerebrovascular disease, chronic subdural hematoma, cerebral neoplasm, and regional brain atrophy suggesting dementia.
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan measures the metabolic activity of the cerebral cortex and may help confirm
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• Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause reversible memory and attention problems.
• Incorrect: Tensilon test confirms the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis.
• Incorrect: Oral cholecystography confirms the presence of gallstones.