Source
Medical Research Council, Neurochemical Pathology Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
The identification of fluctuating confusion is central to improving the differential diagnosis of the common dementias.
AIMS:
To determine the value of two rating scales to measure fluctuating confusion.
METHOD:
The agreement between the clinician-rated scale and the scale completed by a non-clinician was determined. Correlations between the two scales were calculated; variability in attention was calculated on a computerised cognitive assessment and variability in delta rhythm on an electroencephalogram (EEG).
RESULTS:
The Clinician Assessment of Fluctuation and the computerised cognitive assessment were completed for 155 patients (61 Alzheimer's disease, 37 dementia with Lewy bodies, 22 vascular dementia, 35 elderly controls). A subgroup (n = 40) received a further evaluation using the One Day Fluctuation Assessment Scale and an EEG. The two scales correlated significantly with each other, and with the neuropsychological and electrophysiological measures of fluctuation.
CONCLUSIONS:
Both scales are useful instruments for the clinical assessment of fluctuation in dementia.