Late-life psychosis and modern neuroimaging

A historical review of the literature on late-life psychosis (LLP) is presented with special emphasis on the relationship of structural and metabolic brain disease to this condition. The study of this patient population with modern neuroimaging is described. With the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single photon computerized emission tomography (SPECT), and computerized EEG, the authors estimate that approximately 50 to 60 per cent of cases will have structural or metabolic brain disease as a significant contributing factor to their psychosis. In their experience, silent vascular disease is seen in approximately one quarter of all cases. A logical clinical approach to these patients is presented.