Makindo Medical Notes

🧠 Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS)

The Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS) is a quick 10-point screening tool used by healthcare professionals to assess cognitive function. It is especially useful in older adults, where it helps identify possible dementia, delirium, or other causes of impaired cognition.

📋 Components of the AMTS

Scoring: 1 point per correct answer (maximum = 10). Normal: 8–10 points. Possible cognitive impairment: ≤7 points → consider delirium, dementia, or further testing.

⚕️ Uses of the AMTS

• Screening tool: Rapid bedside test in hospital, GP, or clinic.
• Monitoring: Track changes over time (e.g. delirium recovery, dementia progression).
• Trigger for further tests: Patients scoring ≤7 require more detailed cognitive assessment (MMSE, MoCA).

⚠️ Limitations

• Not diagnostic: Only a screen — sensitivity for mild impairment is low.
• Educational & cultural bias: Questions like “year WWI began” may be less reliable in younger or overseas patients.
• Narrow scope: Does not assess executive function or detailed memory → follow up with MoCA/MMSE if concern remains.

✨ Summary

The AMTS is a fast screening tool for cognitive impairment. Score ≤7 → consider delirium, dementia, or acute confusional state. Always interpret in context (education, culture, acute illness) and use alongside a full history, exam, and collateral information.