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Review
. 2020 Sep;104(5):807-825.
doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2020.06.007.

Cognitive Impairment Evaluation and Management

Lauren McCollum  1 , Jason Karlawish  2
Affiliations
Review

Cognitive Impairment Evaluation and Management

Lauren McCollum et al. Med Clin North Am. 2020 Sep.

Abstract

Clinicians should use a systematic approach to evaluating patients presenting with a concern for cognitive impairment. This approach includes interviewing a knowledgeable informant and performing a thorough mental status examination in order to determine the presence of functional impairments and the domains of cognition that are impaired. The results of this interview and examination determine the next steps of the diagnostic work-up. The pattern of cognitive impairment shapes the differential diagnosis. Treatment should address symptoms, and environmental, psychological, and behavioral interventions are essential.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; Dementia; Mental status examination; Mild cognitive impairment; Neuropsychiatric symptoms.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The authors have nothing to disclose.

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