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Angular gyrus syndrome mimicking depressive pseudodementia
Nages Nagaratnam1, Tai Anh Phan, Claire Barnett
1Blacktown-Mount Druitt Health, Blacktown, NSW 2148, Australia. nage@mail2me.com.au
Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN
|September 26, 2002
Summary
Angular gyrus syndrome can mimic depression, presenting with cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Distinguishing this neurological condition from pseudodementia is crucial for appropriate treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuropsychology
- Neurology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- A 67-year-old woman diagnosed with pseudodementia showed little improvement with depression treatment.
- Neuropsychological testing indicated symptoms consistent with angular gyrus syndrome.
Observation:
- The patient exhibited agraphia, alexia, and Gerstmann's syndrome.
- Behavioral symptoms included depression, memory deficits, frustration, and irritability.
Findings:
- A right occipito-temporal infarction, 18 months prior, was identified via CT scan.
- The patient displayed language dysfunction and reversed cerebral lateralization characteristic of angular gyrus syndrome.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis is vital as treatments for angular gyrus syndrome and depression differ.
- The term pseudodementia may obscure the underlying neurological cause, hindering effective management.