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MMSE Variants and Subscores

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Cognitive Screening Instruments

Abstract

The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is long established as an instrument for the screening of cognitive complaints. Its utility has prompted the development of a number of variants and subscores. Of the MMSE variants, many are shorter than the original MMSE to facilitate use in time-limited situations but hopefully without loss of clinical utility. In contrast, the modified MMSE or 3MS is longer, assessing a broader range of cognitive functions. MMSE adaptations for those with hearing or visual impairment, for telephone use, and to identify cognitive problems in Parkinson’s disease have been described. MMSE subscores which may help to identify vascular dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies have also been described. These MMSE variants and subscores provide additional tools for the assessment of cognitive complaints, sometimes related to specific clinical situations. There are fewer data regarding their use than for the MMSE.

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Davies, R.R., Larner, A.J. (2013). MMSE Variants and Subscores. In: Larner, A. (eds) Cognitive Screening Instruments. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-2452-8_3

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