Which feature is MOST helpful in distinguishing dementia from severe depression?
A. Persistent headache
B. Weight loss
C. Poor attention spans
D. Grasp reflex
A. Persistent headache
B. Weight loss
C. Poor attention spans
D. Grasp reflex
The
Answer is. (D). Grasp reflex
Somatic
complaints such as anorexia, weight loss and headache are features of both
conditions, though more prominent in patients with depression. The behavioural
and cognitive functions are affected in both conditions. Poor concentration,
poor attention span, poor memory and social withdrawal are encountered in both.
Grasp reflex and other primitive reflexes indicate neuronal loss in the frontal
lobe, which does not occur ,in depression. A positive response to
antidepressant treatment is a reliable sign in favour of depression.
