Neurobiology of Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are common, costly, and disruptive. Presentations of BPSD are heterogeneous, with some of the most severe symptoms including apathy, psychosis, and agitation. They can occur in dementia of any etiology. Onset and progression of BPSD are difficult to predict, although much research has investigated the anatomic, genetic, functional, and biochemical factors with which these symptoms and behaviors may be associated. This article serves to review the available data correlating these factors with apathy, agitation, and psychosis in dementia.