L'annonce du diagnostic de la maladie d'Alzheimer

Abstract

How many practitioners do inform their patients about the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease ? Does this announcement increase the risk of depression and/or suicide or in the contrary the compliance to the care ? Do the caregivers want that the information will be gave to their parents ? In the case where the caregivers could present Alzheimer's disease, do they want to know their diagnosis ? The arguments pro- or contra- the announcement of the diagnosis to the patients are discussed then a strategy of announcement is proposed in order to give a clear message to the patient, his family and caregivers. A pluridisciplinary approach is essential. Empathy is the optimal professional attitude in front of the emotional reactions secondary to the announcement. The announcement of the diagnosis produces rather a positive impact but the risks have to be appreciated and controlled. The announcement of the diagnosis represents a comprehensive medical act which demands a technical approach.