This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (diagnostic). The objectives are as follows:

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) for the detection of all-cause dementia or its subtypes (Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia) in primary and secondary healthcare settings, and in community-based epidemiological studies (for example, in a cross-sectional prevalence survey). We will synthesise studies separately by setting.

To examine the sources of heterogeneity of test accuracy in the included studies. Sources of heterogeneity may include differences in settings, reference standards, index test cut-offs, and different translations of the RUDAS.

To identify the gaps in the evidence base for the diagnostic test accuracy of RUDAS in dementia, and consider the scope for future research in this area.