Pseudodementia is a term used to describe cognitive impairment caused by depression. Symptoms such as forgetfulness, distractibility, and difficulty thinking seen in depression patients can mimic a true dementia presentation.
The key differences between pseudodementia and true dementia are: In pseudodementia, cognitive symptoms begin with depression and improve with depression treatment. In true dementia, cognitive decline is progressive and does not improve despite depression treatment.
Differentiating between depression and dementia is particularly important in elderly patients. Cognitive impairment due to depression is reversible with appropriate psychiatric treatment. Therefore, depression should always be investigated in elderly patients presenting with forgetfulness and cognitive complaints.