Control of hypertension is important. Slowed motor movements, ataxia and weakness may be evident. Most of the reflexes are hyperactive with extensor plantar responses. Zidovudine may cause dramatic, albeit temporary, improvement. Patients are slow and slovenly, in contrast to the more alert behavior characterizing Alzheimer's disease.
Pathogenesis is based on impeded CSF circulation and absorption.
CT scans show large dilated ventricles. Slow disintegration of personality and intellect to to impaired insight and judgment and loss of affect. As the dementia develops aphasia, apraxia, agnosia may be present. Remote memory is preserved until last stages. This is commonly misdiagnosed as an affective disorder as depression, anxiety, or elation may result.