Pseudodementia mimics Progressive Dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment. It is a reversible memory disorder that can arise from vitamin B12 deficiency, a neuroinfection, certain drugs and drug interactions, stress, depression, substance abuse, and some metabolic disorders. It can occur at any age and is the source of considerable distress to the patient. Once a positive diagnosis of Pseudodementia is made, treatment is focused on correcting the cause through proper treatment. Left untreated, Pseudodementia most often does not resolve on it's own. About 20% or more of Pseudodementia patients go on to develop Dementia, so periodic examinations should be done to rule out that possibility.
What Families May Notice
PSEUDODEMENTIA
DEMENTIA
DEMENTIARapid symptom onsetGradual symptom onset
Gradual symptom onsetDepression is usual Depression variable
Depression variablePatient usually distressed Distress not usually seen
Distress not usually seenPsychiatric history common Psychiatric history not usual
Psychiatric history not usual
