New dementia screening tool detects early cognitive problems missed by commonly used test

New dementia screening tool detects early cognitive problems missed by commonly used test: New research finds Saint Louis University tool is more sensitive
[1 November 2006 - EurekAlert! - Saint Louis University] A screening tool for dementia developed by Saint Louis University geriatricians appears to work better in identifying mild cognitive problems in the elderly than the commonly used Mini Mental Status Examination, according to a new study. Physicians routinely administer the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) to patients who they believe may have Alzheimer's disease. Both the MMSE and SLU's screening tool –- the Saint Louis University Mental Status Examination (SLUMS) –- indicate to doctors when they should pursue further testing in diagnosing dementia. "This early detection of mild neurocognitive disorder by the SLUMS offers the opportunity for the clinicians to begin early treatment as it becomes available," says Syed Tariq, M.D., lead author and associate professor of geriatric medicine at Saint Louis University. More