Howard, R;
Schott, J;
(2021)
When dementia is misdiagnosed.
International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry
, 36
(6)
pp. 799-801.
10.1002/gps.5538.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore and discuss the implications of diagnostic uncertainty within services that diagnose and treat people with dementia. In particular, the difficulties associated with false positive dementia diagnoses. METHODS: Narrative review written by an Old Age Psychiatrist and a Cognitive Neurologist. RESULTS: Both false-positive and false-negative dementia diagnoses are made. These are more likely when apparent dementia is mild and in less typical cases, including when the patient is under 60, the diagnosis is less common or diagnosis has depended largely on brain imaging. In such cases, the passage of time is generally helpful in revealing diagnostic status. Reversing a dementia diagnosis can be very difficult for patients. CONCLUSION: Except in some rare situations, dementia diagnoses made in life are only "probable" and should be subject to review. Dementia diagnosis services should support patients through reversal of diagnoses. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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