Profiles of Major Cognitive Disorders in Elderly People Followed at the Geriatric Clinic of Fann National University Hospital in Senegal

Introduction: The aging of the world’s population is accompanied by an increase in the prevalence of chronic pathologies, including major neurognitive disorders (MNCD), which are a true global public health problem. The aim of this study was to update the epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of MNCD in elderly subjects in the first geriatric university department in Senegal and the sub-region. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective and descriptive study from January 1, 2020 to January 1, 2021. It concerned subjects aged 65 years and over received in the department with MNCD diagnosed by using the Senegal test and the IADL score of Lawton. Results: Out of a total of 510 patients, major cognitive impairment was diagnosed in 61, representing a prevalence of (11.9%). The mean age was 70 years ±7 (extremes 65 - 98 years), with a male predominance (52%), (sex ratio 1.1). Sixty-four percent (64.10%) of the subjects were married, (25%) illiterated, (93.44%) lived with their families and fifty percent (50.81%) were well cared for. Antecedents and comorbidities included arterial hypertension (59.02%). Neurocognitive manifestations were dominated by memory disorders (62.30%), followed by anxiety and/or hallucinations (52.45%). MNCD were severe in (63.93%). The etiologies of CMND were dominated by Alzheimer’s disease (46%), followed by vascular causes (31%). Geriatric syndromes associated with dementia were dominated by loss of autonomy (88.52%) and frailty (65.57%). Memantine was the most prescribed anti-dementia treatment (72.13%). Psychosocial care in the form of home assistance was provided in 88.52% of cases. Conclusion: The prevalence of MNCD remains high compared to data from the African region. This indicates the importance of organizing the management of cases with serious consequences for caregivers. The etiologies remain dominated by Alzheimer’s disease and vascular MNCD.