Resumo

LOPES, R.  e  FERNANDES, L.. Bipolar affective disorder, cognitive dysfunction and dementia. Arq Med [online]. 2012, vol.26, n.5, pp.202-210. ISSN 2183-2447.

Cognitive dysfunction in Bipolar Affective Disorder is being considered nowadays as a core feature in terms of psychosocial and functional impact, as well as a manifestation of an affective trait or stage, both in the acute phases and in remission. The degree of impact is related to the iatrogenic effects of medication and also with affective symptoms. Its manifestation in unaffected first degree relatives may be partly a marker of genetic predisposition. Despite the absence of a specific battery for these patients, the neurocognitive assessment assumes an important role with respect to diagnosis and treatment, and is a current field of research. Recent pharmacological agents added to cognitive rehabilitation may be promising options for the future. The likely evolution or overlap with the behavioural symptoms of organic dementia allows this specific categorization as “Bipolar Affective Disorder Type VI”. Determining the detailed clinical history of bipolar traits, particularly in terms of premorbid personality, psychiatric history and family history has become fundamental to their differential diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic approach.

Palavras-chave : Bipolar affective disorder; cognitive dysfunction; dementia.

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