Dementia of the Alzheimer type. An inventory of diagnostic clinical features

Abstract

An Inventory presenting characteristics useful in the clinical identification of dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) is presented. The Inventory includes aphasia, amnesia, abnormal cognition and visuospatial skills, inappropriate lack of concern, and normal motor functions. In a retrospective study of 50 consecutive dementia patients, the DAT Inventory correctly identified 100% of DAT subjects and 94% of non-DAT cases. Utilization of positive criteria can aid in the identification of DAT and can facilitate recognition of treatable illnesses masquerading as DAT.