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Associated physical disease in a demented population.
1Department of Neuroscience and Locomotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Sweden.
Aging (Milan, Italy)
|March 17, 1999
Summary
Physical diseases are frequently underdiagnosed in dementia patients. A study of 236 patients found 64% had unknown or exacerbated conditions, highlighting the need for thorough medical evaluation in dementia care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Neurology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Clinical observations suggest physical illnesses are often underdiagnosed in dementia patients.
- Dementia evaluation frequently overlooks co-occurring physical health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of physical diseases in patients with various types of dementia.
- To determine if associated physical conditions are underdiagnosed in dementia evaluations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective survey of 236 inpatient and outpatient records from a Dementia Investigation Unit.
- Analysis included newly diagnosed physical diseases and exacerbations of previously known conditions.
Main Results:
- 64% of dementia patients had previously unknown or exacerbated physical diseases.
- Cobalamin deficiency (27%) and infectious diseases (24%) were the most common conditions.
- No significant differences in physical diagnoses were observed across dementia subtypes.
Conclusions:
- Associated physical diseases are significantly underdiagnosed in patients undergoing dementia evaluation.
- Comprehensive medical investigation and treatment are crucial for effective dementia management.