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Dementia due to metabolic causes

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Definition:

Dementia due to metabolic causes is a deterioration of mental function caused by various metabolic disorders.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Dementia associated with metabolic disorders may cause reversible or irreversible confusion and changes in intellect or reasoning.

Metabolic causes of dementia include, but are not limited to:

• Endocrine disorders
  • Addison's disease
  • Cushing's disease
  • Diabetic nephropathy
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis
  • Insulinoma or hypoglycemia
  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Hyperparathyroidism
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Thyrotoxicosis
  • Pheochromocytoma
• Metabolic disorders
  • Acid/base disorders of any type
  • Fluid electrolyte disorders of any type
  • Hyponatremia
  • Hypercalcemia
  • Kidney failure , with uremia
  • Liver disease
  • Porphyria
• Nutritional disorders
  • Vitamin B-1 deficiency
  • Vitamin B-12 deficiency
  • Pellagra
  • Protein-calorie malnutrition

• Review Date: 3/5/2007
• Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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