What are the key red flags in a patient's history or examination that

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Key red flags in a patient's history or examination indicating the need for urgent referral to a specialist for memory loss include:

Suspected rapidly progressive dementia, which requires referral to a neurological service with access to specialized tests such as cerebrospinal fluid examination for Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease and similar conditions.
Memory problems in adults under 50 with other neurological signs or rapidly worsening symptoms.
When reversible causes of cognitive decline (such as delirium, depression, sensory impairment, or medication effects) have been investigated and dementia is still suspected.
Presence of new neurological signs or rapidly progressive cognitive deterioration.

These red flags warrant urgent specialist assessment to confirm diagnosis, exclude reversible causes, and initiate appropriate management.

What are the key red flags in a patient's history or examination that would indicate the need for urgent referral to a specialist for memory loss?