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Updated: Dec 30, 2025
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A Machine Learning Approach to Design an Efficient Selective Screening of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Published on: January 11, 2020
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A Clinical Approach to Cognitive Impairment
1Dr. Koliatsos is the Stulman Scholar in Clinical Neuropsychiatry and Director, Neuropsychiatry Program, Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital, Towson, Maryland; professor of Pathology and Neurology and associate professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore; and clinical professor of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore (e-mail: koliat@jhmi.edu).
Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing)
|January 25, 2020
Summary
Cognitive impairment, common in daily life, requires clinical attention when severe. Key causes include neurodegenerative disease, stroke, medication toxicity, and alcoholism, often linked to aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is a widespread medical issue, often increasing with age.
- Major causes include neurodegenerative diseases, cerebrovascular events, medication side effects, and alcohol abuse.
- These conditions frequently coexist with other illnesses and polypharmacy, complicating patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the evaluation and management of clinically significant cognitive impairment.
- To emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach involving multiple medical disciplines and caregivers.
Main Methods:
- Detailed patient history, including symptom timeline and caregiver input.
- Thorough physical and mental status examinations.
- Strategic ancillary testing tailored to the differential diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Identification of top causes: neurodegenerative disease, stroke, medication toxicity, alcoholism.
- Recognition of the aging population as a significant demographic factor.
- Highlighting the critical role of caregivers as 'hidden patients'.
Conclusions:
- A systematic evaluation integrating history, examination, and targeted testing is crucial.
- Multidisciplinary team-based care, including primary care and specialists, is essential for optimal outcomes.
- Psychiatrists must remain updated on advancements and collaborate effectively in managing cognitive impairment.
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