[Delirium and dementia]

Abstract

Dementia and delirium are nosologic entities with overlapping presenting symptoms. The diagnostic criteria of dementia and of mild cognitive impairment-conceptualized as prodromal state of dementia-are discussed here and the importance of very early diagnosis of cognitive decline and the integration of information from informants in the diagnostic process is highlighted. Prominent features of vascular dementia and of dementia with Lewy bodies which are important for differential diagnosis and therapy are described.