Diagnosis
Frontotemporal dementia
In this section:
Diagnosing frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
If you are worried about dementia symptoms in yourself or someone else, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Go to section:
Diagnosing frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
If you are worried about dementia symptoms in yourself or someone else, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Go to section:
How is frontotemporal dementia diagnosed?
Diagnosing dementia, and where possible the type that someone has, is important. It means that the right treatments, support and help can be given, and people can plan for the future.
During the appointment the doctor will:
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Discuss your symptoms and the impact they are having on your daily life.
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If possible, ask someone who knows you well if they have noticed any changes.
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Check on your physical health.
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Run a blood test to rule out other causes of your symptoms such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems. They may also ask you for a urine sample.
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Ask you to complete some quick memory and thinking tests.
If your doctor suspects dementia, they may refer you to a memory clinic or another specialist doctor.
Here, a doctor or nurse will run through some further questions and tests with you. These may include:
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More questions about your concerns, symptoms and how they affect you.
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A physical check-up.
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A brain scan or spinal fluid test (lumbar puncture).
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Completing some in-depth tests to check your memory, thinking and problem-solving skills.
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Genetic counselling if there is a strong family history of young onset dementia.
FTD is an uncommon form of dementia, not often seen by doctors. It can take longer than usual to get the right diagnosis.
Below you can hear about from Claire about her dad Bob's diagnosis of FTD.
No two people experience dementia the same. If you are worried about memory and thinking problems, talk to your doctor.
Can I get a genetic test for frontotemporal dementia?
In situations where there is a strong family history of FTD, you may be offered genetic counselling and testing as part of your diagnosis.
This is to identify whether you have a faulty gene inherited by a parent who also had FTD.
You will be supported by specialist doctors if you decide to undergo genetic testing.
You can find more information about genes and FTD here, or contact Rare Dementia Support who can provide more information about this.
How long does it take to get a diagnosis of FTD?
FTD is an uncommon form of dementia, not often seen by doctors. Therefore it can take longer than usual to get the right diagnosis.
You can find out more about getting a diagnosis of dementia here.
Downloads
Dementia information
The information in this booklet is for anyone who wants to
know more about frontotemporal dementia, also known
as FTD. This includes people living with FTD, their carers,
families and friends.
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PDF, 1,418 KB, 13 pages
Order health information
Alzheimer's Research UK has a wide range of information about dementia. Order booklets or download them from our online form.
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This information was updated in January 2026 and is due for review in January 2028. It was written by Alzheimer's Research UK's Information Services team with input from lay and expert reviewers. Please get in touch if you'd like a referenced copy.
This information is produced with support from The Perfume Shop who had no input into the content.
