Disturbed behaviour in dementia--psychiatric or medical problem?

A retrospective clinical analysis of 70 demented patients who were admitted with disturbed behaviour to an acute psychogeriatric assessment and treatment centre revealed that 34.4% of patients had a significant untreated physical illness, 8.5% of patients were suffering from drug-induced toxicity and 11.4% of patients had a superimposed psychiatric illness. In only 39% of patients was progressive dementia alone considered an adequate explanation for their behavioural disturbance. The condition of the majority of patients improved significantly and they returned to the community. This study suggests that all patients with dementia with disturbed behaviour should be assessed carefully. In the majority, a clear treatable cause can be found and a good response can be attained with appropriate management.