Elektroconvulsietherapie (ECT) als behandeling voor depressie bij dementerenden?

Depression is one of the most frequently diagnosed psychiatric disorders in dementia. Electroconvulsive therapy is a well-established and effective treatment for depression in the elderly, but currently an overlooked treatment for depression in dementia. Case-studies suggests that ECT is an effective treatment for depression in dementia. However, it is currently unknown whether ECT does have cognitive side effects in dementia. Systematic studies do suggest that cognitive side effects are more likely when dementia progresses. Furthermore, studies in vascular dementia suggest a less favorable cognitive outcome. It is of crucial relevance to prospectively study effects of ECT in different types and phases of dementia in controlled trials. Furthermore, the effects of ECT on cognition should be measured by means of systematic neuropsychological investigation on admission, during treatment and after treatment.