The importance of behavioural and pyschological symptoms in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

Introduction: Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), present in the vast majority of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), cause extensive impairment in all areas, including functionality. Early diagnosis and management are critical, especially since these symptoms are not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) as a diagnostic criterion of AD, but only as specific features of some patients. The main purpose of this review is to highlight the importance of these behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, particularly in AD. In addition, we discuss why these symptoms have not been included in the latest DSM-V.

Development: We conducted a literature search through various databases to gather data about BPSD in AD, and found a total of 12 articles.

Conclusions: BPSD are present in almost all patients and result in cognitive and functional impairment. The prevalence of these symptoms varies depending on the study and the symptom in question. In our view, BPSD should be included among the DSM diagnostic criteria for AD.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; Behavioural and psychological symptoms; DSM-IV; DSM-V; Enfermedad de Alzheimer; Síntomas psicológicos y conductuales.