For the first time in more than 20 years, a panel of primary and specialty care experts have developed new guidelines for the evaluation of patients suspected of Alzheimer's and related diseases.
The guidelines provide a framework for physicians to tailor the diagnostic process to individual patient needs, according to a Dec. 23 news release from the Alzheimer's Association.
The framework includes a three-step formula of assessing cognitive function, behavior and identifying underlying conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms a patient is experiencing. Results from the assessment can then be used to establish a care plan, the release said.
The formula is designed to allow for the integration of new testing and biomarker technologies as the field continues to evolve.
Three guideline updates were published Dec. 23 in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. Read the guidelines for primary care here, for specialty care here and for validated clinical assessment instruments here.