title: [Dementia: clinic and diagnosis].
abstract: Decline of the cognitive functions necessary for activities of daily living results in a spectrum ranging from benign forgetfulness and minimal cognitive impairment to dementia. The latter is characterized by personality and behavioral changes. Alzheimer's disease is the most frequent cause of dementia affecting almost one of two people older than 80 years. Lewy body and cerebrovascular disease are also frequent causes of cognitive decline. Recent studies have revealed genetic aspects of Alzheimer's disease and the role of certain enzymes in the pathophysiology of fibrillary amyloid deposition. The aim in cognitive disease is an early diagnosis to initiate therapy and adapting measures in the patient's daily routines. The diagnosis is basically clinical with neuroimaging and neuropsychological tests' support. The EEG, SPECT, LP and other studies are only useful in a few specific scenarios. At present, a few promising therapies are being evaluated. Family support is of vital importance.
authors.affiliation: Centro Neurológico de Tratamiento y Rehabilitación, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
authors.forename: C J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Estol
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003704:Dementia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans
vernacular_title: Demencia: clínica y diagnóstico.