Memory Disorders Clinic in Florida

Memory Disorders Clinic Services

Services include:

• Complete neurological assessment
• Imaging studies and other diagnostic testing
• Neuropsychological and social evaluation
• Brain Autopsy Program
• Patient caregiver education
• Information on community resources and support groups

A Memory Disorder Evaluation

A memory disorder evaluation can take a few hours or several days, depending on the number of tests necessary. An evaluation may include any of the following:

• A neurological examination.
  This examination gathers a patient's complete medical, social and family history. A physical examination tests reflexes, strength, motor skills and gait. Patients will be asked questions to determine the presence and extent of memory loss; other mental functions such as language skill, judgment and insight; visual spatial ability, and ability to handle activities of daily living. It is very helpful to have a spouse or other close relative or friend come along to assist with this segment of the evaluation.
  
  
• A laboratory assessment.
  Extensive laboratory studies are conducted to check for infection, thyroid function, vitamin deficiency and other illnesses that could affect memory.
  
  
• Neuro-imaging tests.
  Commonly, this involves either a CT (computed tomography) scan or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the head. Both techniques create detailed pictures of the brain to help a doctor make a more complete medical diagnosis.
  
  
• A neuropsychological evaluation.
  This evaluates several areas, including a patient's memory, eye-hand coordination and abilities to pay attention, concentrate and use language. A typical session lasts from three to four hours, but breaks are provided when and if needed.
  
  
• A summary report.
  When all tests are completed, the patient is scheduled for a return visit with a Mayo physician to review the results. Patients may also meet with a counselor to discuss additional questions, and review the physician's recommendations.

What to Bring to an Evaluation

Patients who are already being seen in any Mayo Clinic department do not need to bring any medical records with them.

However, patients who have had memory assessments done elsewhere or who are making their first visit to the clinic should bring the following, if possible:

• Memory disorder evaluation reports from any physician.
• Recent laboratory results.
• Actual films of the head, such as CT or MRI scans.
• Psychological or psychiatric reports.

Brain Autopsy Program

In the laboratory, scientists at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville have been studying Alzheimer's disease since 1989. Led by world-renowned researchers in the field, our lab is studying Alzheimer's at molecular, genetic, biological and biochemical levels. The Brain Autopsy Program is crucial to expanding our understanding of the disease.

Alzheimer's and related disorders touch not only the people with the disease, but family members as well. Families often ask, "Why did this happen?" To help answer these questions, a physician must have an absolute diagnosis. The only way to do this is through an autopsy after death.

Through the Brain Autopsy Program, Mayo provides a free brain autopsy at the time of death. During the autopsy, samples of brain tissue are taken for research. Results of the autopsy are made available to the family in about two months.

Choosing to participate in this program may be a difficult decision. But research offers hope to families who may be affected by this disease in the future. The Memory Disorder Clinic staff is available to answer any questions you or your family members may have about the program.