MRI results(1)

bookwormRN

We received a call from my mom’s neurologist today to tell us that her MRI showed moderate cerebral atrophy and “age-related changes.” The neurologist said we would discuss it further after mom completes her cognitive testing next week. I know what moderate cerebral atrophy means from a medical standpoint but my question is for those of you who have been through this process with your family member. As far as a neurological work up for cognitive changes, what does this mean?

M1

Hi bookwormRN. It doesn't mean a lot, frankly. Imaging is rarely diagnostic in dementia, it means as much for what's not there-tumor, stroke, hydrocephalus-as for what's there. The cognitive testing will be more important, and your personal assessment of where she is behaviorally may be more important than anything (google Tam Cummings stages of dementia, if you're not familiar with them).  Hope it's helpful when you have the discussion.

Cynbar

I expected a lot more clarity from the diagnostic work ups than I got. The MRI as M1 said was mostly to rule out physical issues like a brain tumor. The cognitive testing yielded a bunch of numbers. The final diagnosis was mild dementia of the Alzheimer type. Basically, I felt we already knew that, but it was a relief to at least have an official diagnosis. Neither the neurologist or the geri psychiatrist gave me much info on what to expect, a timeline, or really anything else. Stages haven't been that useful to me, DH has usually had some elements of different stages at the same time. I have gotten much more information and guidance from these boards than I have ever gotten from DH's doctors. I have learned that every dementia patient is different and it's really hard to predict how fast they will progress Read up all you can about dementia, come here often for questions and advice and support, but remember that your dementia journey will not exactly mirror anyone else's.

Iris L.

Cynbar wrote:

 Neither the neurologist or the geri psychiatrist gave me much info on what to expect, a timeline, or really anything else. 

IMO as a former medical professional, this is a major failing on their parts as professionals.  I was trained that doctors ARE to tell the patients and families what to expect.  But I was trained fifty years ago in the art and the science of medicine.  I believe doctors nowadays focus more on the science of medicine than the art of medicine. 

Iris