Magnetic resonance in the differential diagnosis of dementia

Summary. Magnetic resonance became an important tool for the differential diagnosis of dementia. Magnetic resonance imaging is the preferred method to exclude treatable entities accompagnied by dementing symptoms. New techniques including diffusion and perfusion magnetic resonance imaging are helpful for the differentiation between vascular dementia and degenerative disorders. Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy evolves as a tool for the diagnosis of different forms of degenerative dementia. Multimodal magnetic resonance holds promise to diagnose Alzheimer's disease at early clinical stages and to monitor the progression of the disease. Received July 9, 2001; accepted November 19, 2001