Diagnosis and Treatment for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia

ABSTRACT

Dementia is a common neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by progressive impairment of cognitive abilities and distinct behavioral and psychological symptoms. In particular, various behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) add to the burden of family and society. Moreover, the number of dementia patients is rapidly growing with increasing elderly population. The main symptoms of BPSD are anxiety, depression, delusions and hallucinations. BPSD produce significant problems for both patients and caregivers. Aggravated BPSD accelerates impairment of cognitive function and induces early nursing home placement, increasing cost for care while decreasing quality of life. The pathophysiology of BPSD is determined by genetic, structural, or environmental factors. Diagnosis of BPSD used "NPI, BEHAVE-AD and BRSD of CERAD". The management of BPSD requires both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. When BPSD are mild, non-pharmacological strategies are essential, but for patients with moderate to severe BPSD, pharmacological intervention should also be emphasized.