A 73-year-old retired teacher presents to her GP requesting assessment for memory concerns. She reports 18 months of progressive difficulty rememberin...

Question

A 73-year-old retired teacher presents to her GP requesting assessment for memory concerns. She reports 18 months of progressive difficulty remembering appointments and recent conversations. She remains independent in all activities of daily living. Her husband notes she has become more repetitive. MMSE is 26/30. She is worried about dementia. According to NICE NG97, what is the MOST appropriate initial investigation?

Accepted Answer

Request blood tests including FBC, U&Es, LFTs, calcium, glucose, TFTs, vitamin B12, and folate to exclude reversible causes

Answer

Arrange an urgent CT head

Answer

Refer directly for a lumbar puncture to measure CSF amyloid and tau

Answer

Start a trial of Donepezil while awaiting specialist assessment

Answer

Reassure her that her MMSE is normal and review in 12 months

uk-dgm MCQ (SBA): Initial Investigation of Suspected Dementia