La complejidad neuroconductual del síndrome de diógenes: a propósito de un caso

Abstract

Diogenes syndrome is a challenge for clinicians. It is described in older adults. It is characterized by extreme neglect of self-care, accumulation of useless objects, self-neglect, social isolation and no awareness of illness. Between a third and a half of the patients have frontotemporal dementias or a mental disorder. We present the case of a 71-year-old male admitted to psychiatry due to behavioral disorders. He presents hoarding behavior, neglect of hygiene, disorganization and loss of habits. The behavior generates neighborhood conflicts and social alarm, for which social services intervene. Neuroimaging studies do not provide significant pathologic findings. Neuropsychological examination showed mild involvement of dorsolateral, dorsomedial, and orbitofrontal prefrontal areas. No acute psychopathology was observed. Multidisciplinary intervention is performed in a day hospital, with behavioral supervision, time structuring plan, promotion of autonomy and social support. This case shows the complexity of the diagnostic process and the mobilization of social, health and legal resources given the repercussions in all areas.