How is childhood dementia tested for and diagnosed?

To test for childhood dementia, a specialist doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and take a medical and family history. They may order initial tests on the urine or blood, imaging scans of the brain (MRI or CT scan) and brain activity tests (electroencephalograms, also called EEGs).

Ultimately, genetic testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Genetic testing can determine the change in the DNA that is causing dementia. If the genetic change is very rare, it may take some time and additional analysis to find the cause.