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Joined: 1/1/2015
Posts: 7
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I had my first neurology visit today and he administered the MMSE. I got 26/30, which is in the mild impairment range. Even thought I knew I was having issues, it's still so shocking. He agreed to order the genetic tests for PSEN1, PSEN2, and APP because I have three first degree relatives who had early onset Alzheimer's.
I am looking forward to finding out if I won the genetic lottery once and for all.
Cherice
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Joined: 5/20/2014
Posts: 4408
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Hi Cherice,
Is the neurologist sending you for a neurological psychological evaluation? If not do request the evaluation which is more thorough and can measure strengths and weaknesses. The evaluation should take about 6 or more hours. The MMSE alone is not enough to get an accurate depiction of the level or stage of impairment. Good luck with the genetic testing. I hope you did not win the lottery,
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Joined: 6/1/2014
Posts: 52
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Hi Cherice.. sorry you are here but there are alot of nice and helpful people here. I have been seeing a neurologist for several months now and she has put me on aricept . I dont have insurance therefore couldnt afford to have the neuopsych test done to start with. My cousin sent me a number to a hospital in Charleston sc and i went there for the neuropsych test and to see if I would qualify for a clinical trial . I got confirmation from the dr that did the test that I tested in the range of early onset alzheimers . I knew it because my mom was diagnosed at 51. I was told by the neurologist from a few of the memory test she did that she was pretty sure I had it but i didnt have the money to have all these other test done. So with this trial I will have many test done and the gene test is one of the them as well as the pet scan. I dont know your situation but you may want to look into clinical trials to help . Just the neuropsych test had I had to pay for it would have been 2000.00 dollars. So it may be something you want to check into. I hope all goes well for you .
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Joined: 1/1/2015
Posts: 7
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We did talk about some other memory tests and he mentioned an MRI and PET scan. I have excellent insurance so I can get them done at any time. For now we are just starting with the genetic tests since it will definitively give me some answers.
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Joined: 8/9/2013
Posts: 584
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Everyone has offered you some great advice. I'd certainly get the 6 hour testing like llee suggested if you can and the MRI and PET Scan as they helped in my diagnosis. I also got second opinions from the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic (my Neurologist set these up). I hope you find out what is wrong and then can begin to make the changes in your life that need to be done to help fight the disease. I also hope you will stay active on our boards and keep us updated. You will find much encouragement here for these folks are absolutely fabulous! God bless, Paul
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