Is brain shrinking an Alzheimer's diagnosis?
"Some small amount of brain shrinkage" on an MRI is not adequate for a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. No single test or MRI can be used by itself to diagnose Alzheimer's. Much depends on his age, other medical conditions, and most important, have there been changes in his ability to handle usual daily tasks? Have there been changes in behavior or personality, interest or energy level? If you are concerned about his emotions, he may have treatable symptoms of depression, anxiety or new emotional swings associated with early Alzheimer's disease. For example, some people with early Alzheimer's become more easily irritable or frustrated or they maylash out at family members in ways they have never done before. Some people withdraw or seem disinterested in family or usual activities. Some people with vascular dementia may have mood swings or sudden uncharacteristic crying spells. A diagnosis of Alzheimer's requires a thorough medical and neurological examination and a conversation with a family member or friend who knows him well. The key is how he has changed and what other conditions, instead of or in addition to Alzheimer's may be causing those changes. Ask this doctor or another doctor more questions beyond the MRI results.
