Unfortunately, much more must be learned about dementia before effective treatments are discovered to prevent or retard mental decline.
Brain autopsy provides definite confirmation of the diagnosis.
Brain autopsy provides priceless tissue to researchers for anatomic, pathologic, and neurochemical research. Major contributions to our understanding of these tragic diseases may come from even single case studies. Brain donation from individuals who do not suffer from dementia are also critical for understanding the normal aging process. Making the Decision Brain autopsy is a decision that patients and their families can make only after thoughtful consideration. The decision has important emotional and practical implications.