Study Reveals Potential Misdiagnoses in Dementia Cases

Up to 100,000 individuals in England may have undiagnosed dementia forms such as dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia. In the US, a new type of memory loss called Limbic-predominant amnestic neurodegenerative syndrome (LANS) has been identified by Mayo Clinic researchers. Additionally, a study reveals that around 13% of dementia cases globally might be misdiagnosed and actually stem from treatable conditions like liver disease, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnoses and proper treatment. Hepatic encephalopathy, linked to liver failure, affects over 40% of patients with cirrhosis and can mimic dementia symptoms, underscoring the need for healthcare providers to be vigilant. Early detection and intervention for liver-related issues could lead to reversibility, showcasing the potential for improved cognitive outcomes and highlighting the significance of lifestyle changes and emerging treatments.