The variety of etiologic theories suggests that Alzheimer's disease may be multifactorial in origin. While the diagnosis is certain only at autopsy, a careful history and physical examination combined with relatively simple studies can exclude multi-infarct dementia and reversible forms of dementia, such as pseudodementia. Staging the clinical course facilitates management decisions. The family physician should provide as much nurturance as possible to family members who are caring for patients with this disease.
多种病因理论表明，阿尔茨海默病的起源可能是多因素的。虽然只有在尸检时才能确诊，但详细的病史、体格检查以及相对简单的检查可以排除多发梗死性痴呆和可逆性痴呆形式，如假性痴呆。对临床病程进行分期有助于做出管理决策。家庭医生应尽可能给予照顾患有这种疾病患者的家庭成员充分的关怀。
