Article Text
Abstract
Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) is a relatively rare, adult-onset disorder characterised by proximal limb weakness, progressive eyelid drooping and swallowing difficulties. Preliminary research suggests there could be a link between OPMD and dementia; however, the current literature is relatively limited and inconsistent. This case study describes a 75-year-old female with OPMD, presenting to an older adults community mental health team with memory problems and word finding difficulties. A neuropsychological assessment was carried out. The results of her assessment were difficult to interpret; she demonstrated impairments in most cognitive domains tested and her presentation did not appear to reflect any typical dementia profile. It was thought she was most likely presenting with a dementia; however, the exact aetiology remains unclear. The dementia could be a result of OPMD, vascular changes or both. This report emphasises the need for further research into the possible causal link between OPMD and dementia/cognitive decline.
- eye
- muscle disease
- dementia due to medical condition
- dementia
- vascular
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Footnotes
Contributors MKN (Trainee Clinical Psychologist) and LM (Clinical Psychologist) contributed equally to the planning, conduct and reporting of the work described in the article.
Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Competing interests None declared.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.
Patient consent for publication Obtained.
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