Semin Neurol 2007; 27(4): 363-375
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-985337
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Evaluation of Rapidly Progressive Dementia

Bryan Keith Woodruff1
  • 1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Scottsdale, Arizona
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
15 August 2007 (online)

ABSTRACT

The evaluation of patients with rapidly progressive dementia can be challenging, largely due to the rarity of the conditions responsible for such fulminant presentations of dementia. This article presents a framework for categorizing such disorders based on the underlying pathophysiology, including degenerative, inflammatory, vascular, toxic, metabolic, neoplastic, and infectious causes of rapidly progressive dementia. Diagnostic approaches, representative imaging abnormalities, and treatment options for these uncommon conditions are also presented.

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Bryan Keith WoodruffM.D. 

Mayo Clinic Arizona, 13400 East Shea Boulevard

Scottsdale, AZ 85259

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