Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia is a common cause of dementia. It is easily misdiagnosed as a psychiatric illness due to its presentation with behavioral problems, mutism, language problems and in some cases with aggression and anti-social behavior. We report a case of a 72-year-old man who presented with behavioral abnormalities, lack of personal hygiene, personality changes of gradual onset since 2–3 years, suggested by inability to take care of self, mutism, social disinhibition in the form of micturition in the presence of family members. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain showed atrophy of frontal and temporal lobes. The family members were counseled for the outcome and prognosis of the case. The diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia is made based on presentation, diagnostic criteria and brain imaging. Definite treatment is not available, but treating according to presenting complaints of the patient is helpful; e.g. if the patient has depression, anti-depressants along with family counselling about the progression of the disease and awareness about requirement for the family support are important.
Highlights
Frontotemporal dementia is a common cause of dementia
It may be due to Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD) or Lewy body dementia
The exact etiology and pathophysiology of frontotemporal dementia is incompletely understood but recent studies suggest that genetics plays an important role in disease causation [7]
Summary
Dementia is a common disease in middle age and elderly. It may be due to Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD) or Lewy body dementia. A 72yearold man presented with history of poor oral intake for two days, chills and rigors, without the presence of fever on daily temperature recording As he was not able to give accurate history, his daughter was interviewed and it was found that the patient has had personality change for 2–3 years now. But at times patient would become mute His mini mental state examination (MMSE) score was 21/30, as assessed recently on follow up by one of the attending neurologist. Patient’s full blood count, renal functions, thyroid functions, liver functions and routine urine examinations were normal He tested negative for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, venereal disease research laboratory test (VDRL), and treponema palladium. They were advised to not to let patient drive on his own
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