Senile dementia of the Binswanger's type

Senile dementia of the Binswanger's type is a term used to describe a demen tia syndrome characterized by onset in the sixth or seventh decade of life, subcortical neurologic deficits, psychiatric disorders and evidence of hyp ertension or systemic vascular disease. The status of senile dementia of th e Binswanger's type as a distinct entity is a matter of some controversy. T he array of neuroimaging abnormalities and clinical findings attributed to this condition overlap with a number of other neuropathologies. Leukoaraios is, or attenuation of subcortical white matter, seen on computed tomographi c scans or magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, is a hallmark of senile dementia of the Binswanger's type The clinical findings associated with Bi nswanger's disease are varied but typically include a progressive dementia, depression and "subcortical" dysfunction such as gait abnormalities, rigid ity and neurogenic bladder. Treatment is largely supportive and includes a discussion about advanced directives, social support and antidepressant the rapy. Control of hypertension and aspirin prophylaxis may help prevent furt her progression of white matter disease.