Bipolar disorder may coexist with cognitive deficits, which may be one of the core symptoms of the disease. Additional, independent organic changes in the brain may appear, which cause further deterioration in the cognitive and social functioning of patients. The existence of such comorbidity raises many diagnostic and therapeutic questions. It is necessary to use the existing tools carefully to diagnose bipolar dementia, with a special focus on neuropsychological assessment. Regarding pharmacological treatment, it is very important to avoid medication which could compromise the state of the patient additionally, due to toxicity and adverse effects. Pharmacotherapy should be accompanied by other methods of cognitive and social rehabilitation.
Keywords: bipolar disorder, cognition, dementia, deterioration