Cognitive Syndromes Associated With Movement Disorders

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews the recognition and management of cognitive syndromes in movement disorders, including those with parkinsonism, chorea, ataxia, dystonia, and tremor.RECENT FINDINGS: Cognitive and motor syndromes are often intertwined in neurologic disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson disease, atypical parkinsonian syndromes, Huntington disease, and other movement disorders. Cognitive symptoms often affect attention, working memory, and executive and visuospatial functions preferentially, rather than language and memory, but heterogeneity can be seen in the various movement disorders. A distinct cognitive syndrome has been recognized in patients with cerebellar syndromes. Appropriate recognition and screening for cognitive changes in movement disorders may play a role in achieving accurate diagnoses and guiding patients and their families regarding progression and management decisions.SUMMARY: In the comprehensive care of patients with movement disorders, recognition of cognitive syndromes is important. Pharmacologic treatments for the cognitive syndromes, including mild cognitive impairment and dementia, in these movement disorders lag behind the therapeutics available for motor symptoms, and more research is needed. Patient evaluation and management require a comprehensive team approach, often linking neurologists as well as neuropsychologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and other professionals.

Alzheimer Disease

“…to the article "Cognitive Syndromes Associated With Movement Disorders" by Jennifer G. Goldman, MD, MS, FAAN, and Samantha K. Holden, MD, MS, 60 in this issue of Continuum. Disorders of sleep can be distressing for caregivers of patients with AD and require a comprehensive approach to treatment.…”

“…For example, dementia with Lewy bodies is commonly associated with sleep disorders, but evidence suggests greater daytime sleepiness (more than 2 hours) and more frequent fluctuations of arousal and orientation are seen in dementia with Lewy bodies than in AD 59 . For more information on dementia with Lewy bodies, refer to the article “Cognitive Syndromes Associated With Movement Disorders” by Jennifer G. Goldman, MD, MS, FAAN, and Samantha K. Holden, MD, MS, 60 in this issue of Continuum . Disorders of sleep can be distressing for caregivers of patients with AD and require a comprehensive approach to treatment.…”