Understanding Dementia

ABSTRACT Purpose: This review aims to give an overview of the area of neurology and aging known as dementia. The goal is to provide practical, clear information about dementia and its characteristics, plus other pathologies that appear to be dementia but are not. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed with a search including dementia. Results: The three most common forms of dementia are Alzheimer type dementia, Frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia. There are other briefly reviewed forms of dementia: neurovascular dementia, stroke, and trauma. Numerous conditions mimic dementia and are generally reversible. These conditions are delirium, normal pressure hydrocephalus, depression, substance abuse, and sometimes mental illness. Discussion: This section attempts to combine the literature data with the experience of practitioners to form a practical understanding of dementia and the various forms that are commonly encountered. Keywords: Mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer dementia, Lewy body dementia, Frontotemporal dementia