[Suggestions for utilization of the mini-mental state examination in Brazil].
Mini-metal state examination (MMSE) is a screening test to detect cognitive impairment. The objectives of the present study are to describe some adaptations for use of MMSE in Brazil and to propose rules for its uniform application.


METHODS
We evaluated 433 healthy subjects using the MMSE and verified the possible influence of demographic variables on total scores.


RESULTS
Educational level was the main factor that influenced performance, demonstrated by ANOVA: F(4,425) = 100.45, p<0.0001. The median values for educational groups were: 20 for illiterates; 25 for 1 to 4 yrs; 26.5 for 5 to 8 yrs; 28 for 9 to 11 yrs and 29 for higher levels.


CONCLUSIONS
The MMSE is an excellent screening instrument and definitive rules are necessary for comparison purposes.
Departamento de Clínica Neurológica, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Botucatu, SP, Brasil. sbrucki@uol.com.br
Sonia M D
SM
Brucki
Ricardo
R
Nitrini
Paulo
P
Caramelli
Paulo H F
PH
Bertolucci
Ivan H
IH
Okamoto
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D010054:Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale / Q000592:standards*; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008875:Middle Aged