['Memory problems are a very common reason for presenting to primary care. There is a need for better treatments for dementia. Increased government and media interest may result in greater number seeking help for memory problems, which may not reduce the dementia gap but rather increase numbers seen who do not have dementia. This review highlights the issues around the diagnostic criteria and terminology used for people with memory complaints.', 'A comprehensive literature search using PubMed using keywords for articles on subjective memory decline (SMD)/impairment/complaints, subjective cognitive decline (SCD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and functional memory disorder (FMD).', 'There is a need for early accurate detection of dementia syndromes so that trials of new treatments can begin earlier on the disease process.', 'Diagnostic criteria and terminology used for disorders of memory including SCD, MCI and FMD.'] Are memory difficulties always a sign of incipient dementia : a review of the possible causes of loss of memory efficiency?