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October 06, 2009
Expert advises patients to consider pros, cons of Alzheimer's tests.
HealthDay (10/2, Doheny) reported that before people decide "whether to take an Alzheimer's test, experts say it's important to consider the pros and cons" of such testing.
The Alzheimer's Association points out that "none of the tests are diagnostic," serving "only as a screening, sometimes with results suggesting that the person taking the test needs further evaluation." In fact, "no test should be a substitute for a thorough exam by a skilled" physician, the association said.
But, people who have "an abnormal screening test result should discuss the results with their physician," said Raj Shah, MD, of the Rush University Medical Center. Should "the screening test results show substantial memory problems -- and the finding is backed up through a physician's evaluation -- the advantage is earlier treatment," and patients can also "begin planning for the future."
Related Links:
- Uncertainty Surrounds Testing for Alzheimer's
," Kathleen Doheny, HealthDay, October 2, 2009.
Posted by admin at October 6, 2009 01:33 AM