Memory leak testing options vary in length and include short tests like the Mini-Cog, or longer ones like the ADAS-Cog. Medical tests like brain imaging or genetic testing may also be done to evaluate memory.
There are various types of memory leak testing options that provide a means to measure and categorize memory leak. Measuring and categorizing memory loss helps doctors pinpoint a diagnosis, which in turn helps them identify the best treatment for the patient. These memory leak test options vary in length.
For example, doctors may perform a short memory loss test such as a Mini-Cog. While performing a Mini-Cog test, the doctor says three words and then asks the patient to remember those words later. Also, the doctor asks the patient to draw a watch. There may also be a brief mental state exam such as the Folstein Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) which assesses time and place orientation, attention, arithmetic calculation, memory, everyday speech and motor skills.
One is generally thought to have memory problems if one is unable to answer 20 out of 30 questions on the MMSE correctly. Examples of MMSE questions are “What is your name?” or “what is the date today?” or objects of that nature. Other items might include being asked to count backwards from 100, perform simple arithmetic, repeat a series of words, or spell several words backwards.
Your doctor may choose to do a longer memory loss test such as the ADAS-Cog, which lasts 30 minutes. Additionally, there may be more testing options for neuropsychological memory loss. For example, there may be tests that include assessment of language, visual-spatial, problem solving, concentration, as well as testing memory skills.
Medical tests may be included in the exam such as urinalysis or blood test to find out if there is thyroid or vitamin deficiency. Brain imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan test, may also be done. These particular scans are performed to determine the shape and volume of the human brain, while also checking for symptoms of a stroke, tumor or head injury that could be causing potential memory problems. Positron emission tomography (PET), functional magnetic resonance imaging, and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scans are also done to evaluate the brain’s use of oxygen and sugar in addition to the memory tests that are performed.
In evaluating memory, spinal fluid tests might be done to measure levels of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, genetic testing might be done in some cases because doctors know that a genetic variation called APOE4 appears to be associated with a higher likelihood of memory problems and dementia after age 65. Of course, not all people with APOE4 necessarily develop Alzheimer’s. However, sometimes testing for APOE4 is done.
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