Managing Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are commonly seen in neurodegenerative conditions. These range from subtle mood disturbances to fulminant psychosis. Expression of these symptoms represents a complex interplay between anatomic, physiologic, and psychosocial factors. Despite an expanding evidence-base, management of neuropsychiatric symptoms in neurologic disease remains challenging. This chapter explores the neurobiology of the common neuropsychiatric symptoms encountered in clinical practice, and outlines current approaches toward their pharmacological and behavioral management.