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Illustrative Cases, Definition, and Review

Jeffrey Cummings, MD; D. Frank Benson, MD; Stephen LoVerme, Jr, MD

JAMA. 1980;243(23):2434-2439.

Abstract
The pitfalls of overlooking correctable causes of progressive intellectual deterioration are illustrated by five patients whose conditions were originally diagnosed as primary dementia. In each case careful evaluation disclosed a reversible process. Treatable intracranial conditions, systemic illnesses, endocrinopathies, deficiency states, collagen-vascular disorders, heavy-metal intoxications, exposure to industrial agents, infections, and the effects of drugs must all be considered in the evaluation of the patient with dementia. Such conditions are less likely to go undiagnosed when dementia is regarded as a nonspecific syndrome of progressive intellectual compromise rather than a specific diagnosis.

(JAMA 243:2434-2439, 1980)

Author Affiliations
From the Neurobehavioral Center, Boston Veterans Administration Medical Center, and the Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston.

Footnotes
Reprint requests to Department of Neurology, UCLA School of Medicine, The Center for the Health Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90024 (Dr Benson).

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