Workshop 5: Neuropathological Assessments

Extract

Within our workshop we discussed neuropathological assessments in different cultures and countries, evaluation of dementia type, and availability of autopsy. We agreed that evaluation of dementia cases should not be limited to the use of diagnostic criteria; but neuropathologic assessment should be utilized where appropriate. We agreed that it is vital to communicate this concept to general practitioners (GPs) and physicians working in nursing homes, where there is often a high proportion of dementia patients. When neuropathologic assessments are conducted correctly, they provide both quantitative and qualitative information about cell and tissue damage. The assessment should preferably be performed by a neuropathologist in order that a diagnosis plus an estimation of disease severity and extent can be made.