Description

With the onset of cognitive decline and the concern for dementia, it is extremely important to be sure that treatable causes are ruled out. Many of these can be treated and can reverse the onset of mental decline. Evaluating for hypothyroidism, anemia, electrolyte abnormalities, hypercalcemia and even screening for syphilis are important to be done as early as possible in the process of the evaluation.

This panel includes the following test:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR)

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Vitamin B12 and Folate

Fasting not required.

Additional information about each test is listed below:

A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test that can help identify conditions that may contribute to dementia. A CBC measures the number and types of blood cells.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) blood test ordered as part of a diagnostic evaluation for someone suspected of having dementia, as the CMP can help identify underlying medical conditions like electrolyte imbalances, liver or kidney issues, or blood sugar problems that might be contributing to cognitive decline, even if they aren't the primary cause of dementia itself; essentially, it's a standard blood test used to check for potentially treatable factors that could be impacting cognitive function.

"High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)" is a blood test marker that is increasingly being studied in relation to dementia, as elevated levels of hs-CRP can indicate systemic inflammation, which is suspected to play a role in the development and progression of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease; meaning a high hs-CRP level may be associated with an increased risk of dementia.

A rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test is a blood test that screens for syphilis, which can cause dementia in its final stages. Doctors may order an RPR test as part of a dementia evaluation to rule out treatable conditions that may be contributing to memory or thinking changes.

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels may be associated with dementia risk, but the relationship is complex and depends on the specific TSH level and other factors.

Low levels of vitamin B12 and folate are associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. These deficiencies can increase homocysteine levels, which can lead to neurologic disturbances.