DSM IV DIAGNOSIS: ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Axis I 290.10 Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type, With
The above five axis diagnosis is preliminary only since some of the necessary information is unavailable at this time. Axis I, Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type, is substantiated by the following criteria: (A) memory impairment, failure to identify objects (agnosia), and disturbance in executive functioning; (B) the cognitive impairments cause significant impairment in social or occupational functioning and a decline from previous functioning; (C) course is gradual onset and continuing cognitive decline; (D) cognitive deficits are not due to other central nervous system, systemic, or substance-induced conditions; (E) deficits do not occur only during delirium; (F) disturbance is not better accounted for by other Axis I disorders (APA, 1994). The client reports that his memory loss and mental abilities were suffering from a gradual decline, with increased confusion and inability to function cognitively. Examples included mistakes writing checks, inability to remember friends' faces and names, lost details, inability to function (unable to fill out forms, couldn't remember what instant coffee was, can't find right words for a conversation, lost).
Axis I also lists whether or not symptoms are Early Onset (at age 65 years or below) or Late Onset (after age 65 years; 290.0). This information was not given and the final diagnosis requires age of onset information. It is only assumed to be early onset at this time since he was working as an electrical engineer when symptoms began. Axis I also states the presence of Delirium, Delusions, or Depressed Mood. In this case there is no indication of delirium or delusions, but the client pointed out that he felt very sad and anxious and began to withdraw from others. He stated "I have a sadness and an anxiety that I have never experienced before." However, he also stated that he felt
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