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Long-term outcome of depressive pseudodementia in the elderly

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 April 2020

J.A. Saez Fonseca ,
L. Lee  and
Z. Walker
J.A. Saez Fonseca
Affiliation:
North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, United Kingdom University College London, London, United Kingdom
L. Lee
Affiliation:
North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, United Kingdom
Z. Walker
Affiliation:
North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, United Kingdom University College London, London, United Kingdom

Abstract

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Background

The term depressive pseudodementia has proved to be a popular clinical concept. Little is known about the long-term outcome of this syndrome.

Aims

To compare depressed elderly patients with reversible cognitive impairment and cognitively intact depressed elderly patients.

Methods

All patients suffering from moderate or severe depression admitted to St Margaret's Hospital, UK as inpatients or day hospital outpatients between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 1999 (n=182) were screened for entry into the study. Eligible patients were divided into those presenting with pseudodementia and those who were cognitively intact and followed up for 5 to 7 years.

Results

Seventy one percent point four percent of those suffering from pseudodementia had converted into dementia at follow up compared to only 18.2% in the cognitively intact group. The relative risk was 3.929 (95% CI: 1.985 to 7.775) and the ‘number needed to harm’ 1.88.

Conclusions

Reversible cognitive impairment in late-life moderate to severe depression appears to be a strong predictor of dementia. Patients with pseudodementia should probably have a full dementia screening, comprehensive cognitive testing and ongoing monitoring of their cognitive function.

Type
FC01. Free Communications: Mood Disorders
Information
European Psychiatry , Volume 22 , Issue S1: 15th AEP Congress - Abstract book - 15th AEP Congress , March 2007 , pp. S25
Copyright
Copyright © European Psychiatric Association 2007
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