Researchers in the US have discovered a definitive way of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease in its early stages.

A team of scientists found evidence that enlargement of the brain's ventricles is directly linked to cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.

The study conducted at the Robarts Research Institute at the University of Western Ontario, showed that ventricle size increases with mild cognitive impairment prior to an Alzheimer's diagnosis and continues to grow as the disease progresses.

Using MRI scans from 800 people, the scientists were able to measure and compare the size of brain ventricles of individuals with no cognitive impairment, those with mild cognitive impairment and people with Alzheimer's disease, over a six-month period.

Lead researcher, scientist Robert Bartha, said: "These findings mean that, in the future, by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure changes in brain ventricle size, we may be able to provide earlier and more definitive diagnosis.

"In addition, as new treatments for Alzheimer's are developed, the measurement of brain ventricle changes can also be used to quickly determine the effectiveness of the treatment."

At present, diagnosis for Alzheimer's relies solely on neuron-cognitive assessments including memory testing, problem solving and numerical ability.

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