Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

There is no urine or blood test for diagnosing Alzheimer's. Further complicating matters, several other dementias and diseases exhibit similar symptoms, especially in beginning stages. 

Doctors must work through a process of elimination. When they eliminate other possible causes for symptoms, and reach the full criteria for Alzheimer's, they make a diagnosis. However, it might take a while to reach a correct diagnosis. 

Neurologists conduct the following tests and examinations when diagnosing Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's Diagnosis Examinations & Tests

• Gather medical history.
• Physical examination to determine current health status.
• Neurological tests
• Blood tests
• Chest X-Ray
• Computed Tomography Scan (CT or CAT scan)
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)
• Genetic Testing
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) 
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Neuropsychological Testing
• Urinalysis

To learn more about Alzheimer's diagnosis, please refer to Alzheimer's Diagnosis. 

Alzheimer's Disease Series, books 1-6