By: Susan Aldridge, medical journalist, PhD
Brain deficit has been found among people with memory problems. Memory problems do not necessarily mean dementia, or even mild cognitive impairment, which is sometimes a precursor condition to Alzheimer's disease. But new research from Dartmouth Medical School reveals that memory problems are still linked with brain deficits.
In a study of 120 people over the age of 60, those who complained of memory problems - but performed normally on tests - had reduced gray matter density. The study suggests that all memory problems should be taken seriously. These brain changes might be significant in terms of a future diagnosis of dementia. The finding of reduced gray matter sheds new light on this important issue.
Neurology 12th September 2006