Depression in a patient with dementia secondary to cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis.

The occurrence of depression in a patient with pre-existing dementia, associated with a rare neurological disorder, is described. Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis is a genetically transmitted disease that is associated with deposition of cholestanol in the central nervous system and Achilles tendons. A focus on the often unusual presentation of combined major depression and dementia is offered as well as the interaction of genetic disorders and psychiatric symptoms. The diagnostic and treatment approach to these patients is discussed in regard to this reported case. Also, there is a review of the importance of recognition of early signs and symptoms of both depression in demented patients and evidences of presenile dementia because the prospects of treatability and reversibility should be a prime consideration for these disorders. This case report illustrates the potential for effectiveness of psychiatric interventions for patients with neurological and genetic disorders.