What do we know about pseudodementia?

Abstract

Depression and dementia can lead to generalised cognitive and memory dysfunction. Thus, differentiating these disorders is important and challenging. Pseudodementia is a term used clinically to describe symptoms that resemble dementia but are caused by other conditions (most frequently depression), rather than being recognised as an official diagnosis. Pseudodementia is characterised by a cognitive impairment that mimics dementia but which does not have its origin in neurological degeneration, deriving instead from functional psychiatric conditions. This condition is more commonly observed in older adults (particularly those over the age of 50 or 60 years), and its risk factors overlap with those for depression. Pseudodementia is essentially characterised by deficits in memory, executive function and speech and, therefore, can easily be confused with dementia, although there are aspects that allow its differentiation. Diagnosing pseudodementia can be difficult, especially as there is significant overlap between its symptoms and those of other conditions. However, it is important to recognise characteristic aspects of this disorder, as its correct identification is essential for proper treatment.

Frequency, Characteristics, and Correlates of Cognitive Complaints in a Cohort of Individuals with Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19

“…The relationship of depression to CC and NP performance is known to be complex [37]. Difficulty with attention and concentration are symptoms of depression, and depression is associated with NP deficits in multiple domains, including attention, concentration, working memory, processing speed, and executive function [38,39]. The CC, as well as the NP difficulties of participants in this study are highly consistent with this profile.…”