Referral

Dementia: Investigations and Monitoring

Scope

These recommendations are based on NICE guidance and are consistent with the requirements for quality and outcomes framework (QOF).

At diagnosis (between 12 months before and 6 months after diagnosis)

  • Blood: FBC, Renal, LFTs, Calcium, HbA1C or glucose, TSH, B12 and folate.
  • Follow up: no routine tests recommended

Out of scope

Testing for syphilis serology or HIV should not be routinely undertaken in the investigation of people with suspected dementia. These tests should be considered only in those with histories suggesting they are at risk or if the clinical picture dictates.

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At diagnosis (between 12 months before and 6 months after diagnosis)

  • Blood: FBC, Renal, LFTs, Calcium, HbA1C or glucose, TSH, B12 and folate.
  • Follow up: no routine tests recommended

Testing for syphilis serology or HIV should not be routinely undertaken in the investigation of people with suspected dementia. These tests should be considered only in those with histories suggesting they are at risk or if the clinical picture dictates.

Evidence

Dementia: Supporting people with dementia and their carers in health and social care. NICE guidelines [CG42]. Published: November 2006.

2015/16 General Medical Services (GMS) contract Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF). Guidance for GMS contract 2015/16. Published: March 2015.

Pathway Group

This guideline has been signed off by Pathology Optimisation Clinical Group on behalf of NHS Devon.

Publication date: April 2017