What are the main purposes of routine brain MRI in dementia?
The most important role of MRI or other routine brain imaging in the work-up of dementia is to identify specific abnormalities which could support a diagnosis of dementia, such as atrophy and widened ventricles. The other major goal is to exclude causes of reversible dementia such as normal pressure hydrocephalus. MRI can also identify lobar regions of volume loss, helping to classify the subtype of dementia as well as showing comorbid cerebrovascular disease if this is present.
MRI non contrast Encephalopathy protocol
No focal signal abnormality identified. Significant bilateral parietal lobe volume loss, slightly more prominent on the left, and correlated with local reduced perfusion in those areas. Mesial temporal lobes appear normal. No evidence of restricted diffusion.
No extra-axial collections or mass are evident.
Conclusion: The presence of bilateral parietal lobe volume loss in the this age group and clinical setting favours Alzheimer's disease as the most likely diagnosis.