Vascular Dementia

Biography

Biography: Amarnath Mallik

Abstract

Cognitive Impairment is the hallmark of Dementia. Behavioral disturbances are universally experienced by persons with dementia throughout the course of the illness. Behavioral and Psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) causes a significant negative impact on quality of life , health care outcomes , caregiver stress and burden. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia(BPSD) is the collective term used to describe the group of non cognitive symptoms experienced in dementia. These can include psychosis, agitation and mood disorder and affects 50% - 80% of patients to varying degrees ( Ashlen.P. et al) (Lyketsos CG). Behavioral disturbances can often trigger hospitalization resulting in increased hospital length of stay (WancataJ.2003).The various types of dementia are classified according to the different disease process affecting the brain. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease, accounting for around 60% of all cases. Vascular dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies are responsible for most other cases. Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia may co-exist and are difficult to separate clinically. Dementia is also encountered in about 30% - 70% of patients with Parkinson’s Disease.Vascular dementia is a consequence of ischemic or hemorrhagic damage of area of the brain involved in memory and cognition.Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are among the most costly and distressing medical conditions for patients and their caregivers. (Hebert LE etal 2013).