Contents
Are You Seeing Things? Understanding Visual Hallucinations in DLB
Published: Nov 01, 2023
Visual hallucinations are a hallmark of dementia with Lewy bodies and can be a key to early diagnosis. Discover what these hallucinations entail and how they differ from other conditions.
What are Visual Hallucinations?
In DLB, visual hallucinations are vivid images that patients see but aren't real. They can range from simple shapes to complex scenes involving people or animals. These hallucinations are an early sign and often precede other symptoms like parkinsonism.
Differences from Alzheimer's
Visual hallucinations are much more common in DLB than in Alzheimer's. In DLB, hallucinations can be detailed and frequent, while in Alzheimer's, they are rare and less defined, making them a distinguishing feature between the two.
Patient Experience
Patients with DLB may not always report these hallucinations unless asked. They might perceive them as real or be indifferent to them. Understanding the nature of these experiences is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.
Frequently Asked Questions
They can be vivid images of people, animals, or abstract shapes.
No, they are rare in Alzheimer's but frequent in DLB.
They help differentiate DLB from other types of dementia.
Wrapping Up
Visual hallucinations are a significant clue in diagnosing DLB early.
References
- Cagnin A, Gnoato F, Jelcic N, et al. Clinical and cognitive correlates of visual hallucinations in dementia with Lewy bodies. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2013; 84:505.
- Ala TA, Yang KH, Sung JH, Frey WH 2nd. Hallucinations and signs of parkinsonism help distinguish patients with dementia and cortical Lewy bodies from patients with Alzheimer's disease at presentation: a clinicopathological study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1997; 62:16.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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