PSYCHIATRIC ASPECTS OF PROGRESSIVE SUPRANUCLEAR PALSY

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is characterized by supranuclear ophthalmoplegia mainly affecting vertical gaze, nuchal dystonia in ext ension, pseudobulbar palsy, and mental changes. The literature on PSP has been neurologically oriented whereas the psychiatric aspects have been relatively neglected. A review of the literature shows that psych iatric disturbance in PSP is common but with no characteristic pattern . Cognitive impairment, nonspecific affective and behavioral disturban ces are commonly found, whereas frank psychosis or bipolar disorder ar e rare. Misdiagnoses with psychiatric disorders are common and a heigh tened awareness of the condition is necessary for early diagnosis.