[Paved Paradise]

I had read that the only definitive way to diagnose Alzheimers is on autopsy of the brain, so why are they diagnosing it so much?

The docs said my dad had Alzheimers, but, in fact, he had a horrible stroke and then suffered major neurological deficits which continued til his death. My mother-in-law is said to have Alzheimers but, others have said it is simply dementia.

There is a good book out now by a physician saying that Alzheimers is turning into a big money making endeavor.

[neverdem]

I had read that the only definitive way to diagnose Alzheimers is on autopsy of the brain, so why are they diagnosing it so much?

Autopsy, or biopsy if there's a unique situation, e.g. trauma, gives the definitive diagnosis. Sometimes you have to make a make a presumptive diagnosis for third party payors so Alzheimer's meds can be given.

Neuropsychological Tests Used In The Evaluation Of Alzheimer's Disease

Dementia

Dementia: It's not always Alzheimer's