Which condition is defined as irreversible loss of intellectual functioning due to organic brain damage or disease?

Which condition is defined as irreversible loss of intellectual functioning due to organic brain damage or disease?

• A. Delirium
• B. Amnesia
• C. Encephalopathy
• D. Dementia

Answer: (D)

Dementia is a syndrome of chronic, progressive cognitive decline caused by brain disease or damage, affecting multiple areas such as memory, language, and problem solving, and it interferes with daily life. This makes it the best match for an irreversible loss of intellectual functioning. Delirium, in contrast, is an acute, fluctuating state of confusion that is typically reversible with treatment of its underlying cause. Amnesia involves memory loss but not the broader, ongoing cognitive decline across several domains. Encephalopathy refers to diffuse brain dysfunction that can be reversible with proper treatment and isn’t defined by a permanent, widespread decline in intellect. So the description fits dementia most closely.

Dementia is a syndrome of chronic, progressive cognitive decline caused by brain disease or damage, affecting multiple areas such as memory, language, and problem solving, and it interferes with daily life. This makes it the best match for an irreversible loss of intellectual functioning. Delirium, in contrast, is an acute, fluctuating state of confusion that is typically reversible with treatment of its underlying cause. Amnesia involves memory loss but not the broader, ongoing cognitive decline across several domains. Encephalopathy refers to diffuse brain dysfunction that can be reversible with proper treatment and isn’t defined by a permanent, widespread decline in intellect. So the description fits dementia most closely.