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Updated: May 31, 2026

Using Retinal Imaging to Study Dementia
Published on: November 6, 2017
Dementia presenting with visual complaints
Nikolaos Koutroumanos1, Michael P Clarke, Urs Peter Mosimann
1Wolfson Research Centre, Newcastle University, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE4 5PL, UK.
Abstract:
A 78-year-old female developed memory problems after a 2-year history of persistent visual complaints. Ocular pathology did not explain the extent of her perceived visual impairment. Cognitive screening tests found prominent visuo-constructive deficits and a comprehensive dementia assessment revealed the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. This case describes visual complaints as the initial symptom of dementia, pre-dating memory impairment by several years. We discuss clinical signs of cerebral visual impairment and suggest a simple screening measure.
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