Visual Rating

The medial temporal lobe rating scale is a scoring system designed to help with the visual assessment of hippocampal shrinkage. Based on certain features in and around the hippocampus, each hippocampus is scored from zero (no shrinkage) to four (severe shrinkage) as shown below.

0

1

2

3

4

0-1 are within normal limits


2-4 indicate definite shrinkage

The medial temporal lobe rating scale is useful in the diagnosis of dementia because it draws attention to the hippocampus and provides a simple and consistent way of assessing shrinkage when making a diagnosis of dementia. The scale is quick to apply, free to perform, and does not require any specialist equipment, making it suitable for use in clinical practice.

Why we need you

Other research has proved this scale provides diagnostically useful information.
We now want to prove it is simple to apply accurately (no medical training needed!).
We will compare the scores you provide against the scores provided by dementia experts.
To find out more visit our frequently asked questions.
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