Question

1. a 72 - year - old woman is evaluated for memory loss, difficulty finding words, and getting lost in familiar places. she scores 21/30 on the mini - mental state examination (mmse). what is the most appropriate initial diagnostic workup? a. ct scan of the brain. b. measurement of vitamin b12 and tsh levels. c. neuropsychological testing. d. electroencephalogram (eeg).

Explanation:

The Mini - Mental State Examination (MMSE) is used to screen for cognitive impairment. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause cognitive problems and thyroid - stimulating hormone (TSH) levels can indicate thyroid disorders which may also affect cognitive function. Measuring these levels is a simple and important initial step in diagnosing the cause of memory loss. A CT scan of the brain, EEG, and neuropsychological testing are more invasive or specialized and may be ordered later.

Answer:

B. Measurement of vitamin B12 and TSH levels.