20th July 2023

A 76-year-old woman with a history of Alzheimer’s dementia, is brought in due to concerns from her family

A 76-year-old woman with a history of Alzheimer’s dementia, is brought in due to concerns from her family that she seems very low in mood over the last 6-8 weeks. She has also been expressing feelings of worthlessness and has been struggling to sleep.

Her observations are all normal. Blood tests including a full blood count, renal profile, liver profile, bone profile, and CRP are all within normal range.

You formally assess her cognition, which is unchanged from the assessment at the time of her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s dementia one year ago.

What is the most likely cause of her deterioration?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.