Down Syndrome and Dementia
Robert J. Pary, M.D.

This article reviews the advances in the evaluation and management of dementia in persons with Down syndrome. It is not inevitable that all older persons with Down syndrome will develop dementia. One of the major changes has been in the evaluation of dementia-like syndrome. This article will review laboratory tests as well as dementia scales, neuropsychological batteries and standardized mental status evaluations. Pharmacological management is also discussed. Lastly, there is a need for expert consensus on clinical guidelines for the evaluation and management of dementia in persons with Down syndrome.