MMSE
Also written as: MMSE — Mini-Mental State Examination
A 30-point cognitive screening tool used to assess mental status and cognitive impairment.
Full Definition
The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) is a widely used, standardized cognitive assessment tool that evaluates various domains of cognitive function including orientation, registration, attention, calculation, recall, and language. Developed by Folstein et al. in 1975, it provides a quantitative measure of cognitive impairment with scores ranging from 0 to 30. Scores below 24 typically indicate cognitive impairment, though interpretation must consider education level and cultural factors. The MMSE is commonly used in psychiatric, neurological, and geriatric settings for screening dementia and monitoring cognitive changes over time.
Usage
Usage note: Always write as MMSE, not Mini-Mental. Distinguish from MSE (Mental Status Examination).
In Context
- "The patient scored 18 on the MMSE, suggesting moderate cognitive impairment." — Neuropsychological report
- "Serial MMSE scores showed progressive decline over the past year." — Progress note