mri brain scan for alzheimer

[Mema32837]

Does a normal mri brain scan rule out alzheimer's disease

[Sara Khan]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with your doctor.

Without the ability to examine you and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of your symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information

A normal MRI brain does not rule out Alzheimers with absolute certainity. This is a diagnosis which is based on neuropsychological testing , brain imaging and long term neurological follow up. The diagnosis is not based on a single test, at one point in time. It would be best to be seen by a neurologist who can examine you and based on the neurological exam and ancillary testing, determine the risk/diagnosis of Alzheimers.

I hope this helps.

[Mema32837]

Thank you for the information. My husband is 74 years old and has been experiencing memory loss, confusion, weight loss. He is under a doctor's regular care and scored a 21 on cognizant tests, where the norm is 23-24. It was found that he was extremely deficient in vitamin b-12 and has been put on agressive b-12  injection regiment, along with the brain scan. I do see some improvement (which, I hope, is not wishful thinking). With the b-12, should we dramatic improvement? If so, what would be the time frame?
Thank you