An MRI of a 65-year-old male with gradual onset of memory problems and disorientation shows global cerebral atrophy. What could be the potential diagnosis?
The finding of global cerebral atrophy on MRI in an older individual presenting with memory problems and disorientation raises the possibility of a neurodegenerative disorder such as Alzheimer's disease. However, other conditions like vascular dementia, other types of dementia, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy could also present similarly. Further cognitive testing and potentially a lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis.