Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Using Retinal Imaging to Study Dementia
Published on: November 6, 2017
Diagnostic relevance of spatial orientation for vascular dementia: A case study
Gillian Coughlan1, Emma Flanagan1, Stephen Jeffs1
1Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.
Abstract:
Spatial orientation is emerging as an early and reliable cognitive biomarker of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. However, no evidence exists as to whether spatial orientation is also affected in vascular dementia (VaD).
Objective:
To examine allocentric (map-based) and egocentric (viewpoint-based) spatial orientation in an early stage VaD case.
Methods:
A spatial test battery was administered following clinical and neuropsychological cognitive evaluation.
Results:
Despite the patient's complaints, little evidence of episodic memory deficits were detected when cueing was provided to overcome executive dysfunction. Similarly, medial temporal lobe-mediated allocentric orientation was intact. By contrast, medial parietal-mediated egocentric orientation was impaired, despite normal performance on standard visuospatial tasks.
Conclusion:
To our knowledge, this is the first in-depth investigation of spatial orientation deficits in VaD. Isolated egocentric deficits were observed. This differs from AD orientation deficits which encompass both allocentric and egocentric orientation deficits. A combination of egocentric orientation and executive function tests could serve as a promising cognitive marker for VaD pathophysiology.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Dementia
The progression of dementia is generally gradual....
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

