Definition of Dementia due to metabolic causes
Dementia is a loss of brain function over weeks, months, or years that occurs with certain diseases. It affects memory, thinking, language, judgment, and behavior. Similar changes that occur over hours or a day or two is called or encephalopathy.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
How often this condition affects different ages, genders, and races varies based on the disorder that is causing the dementia.
Symptoms
that occurs with metabolic disorders may cause and changes in thinking or reasoning. These changes may be short-term or lasting.
Signs and tests
An examination of the nervous system (neurologic examination) can show different problems, depending on the cause. Abnormal reflexes may be present.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on managing the disorder and controlling symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outcome varies depending on the cause of the dementia and the amount of damage to the brain.
Review
Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 3/9/2010
