[Risk and benefits of disclosing a diagnosis of dementia]

Rev Med Suisse. 2012 May 23;8(342):1130-4.
[Article in French]

Abstract

While dementias represent an important problem of social health, they remained underdiagnosed. Data from the literature suggests that only 30% of cognitive impairment are detected and correctly evaluated, while most of the patient (up to 90%) and caregivers (up to 70-80%) ask for a precise diagnosis. Proper evaluation increase diagnostic accuracy from 30% to 80% but 20% of diagnoses remains inexact. Diagnostic disclosure seems to have a positive impact on patient's affective symptoms but is associated to an increase of suicide during the following 3 months, and thus must be a progressive and controlled process. Accompanying a patient in this process necessitates complexes competencies from the primary care physician. Difficulties related to this disclosure are counterbalanced by benefits for both patient and families.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Dementia / diagnosis*
  • Dementia / etiology
  • Dementia / psychology
  • Dementia / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disclosure*
  • Expert Testimony
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Neurologic Examination / standards
  • Patient Education as Topic / standards
  • Risk Assessment