What diagnosis has symptoms that include insidious onset, often progressive course that is not usually reversible, clear consciousness until late stages, poor memory, possible visual or auditory hallucinations, and often fixed paranoid delusions?

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The symptoms described suggest a diagnosis of dementia, which is typically characterized by insidious onset and progressive course that is not usually reversible. The patient usually remains conscious until late stages and experiences poor memory, possible hallucinations, and paranoid delusions. Delirium is typically characterized by acute onset, fluctuating course, and reversible cognitive impairment. Depression is characterized by low mood, feelings of hopelessness, and loss of interest. Schizophrenia is characterized by symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior, and lack of motivation. However, the clear consciousness until late stages and memory loss suggest a diagnosis of dementia over schizophrenia.

What Diagnosis Has Symptoms That Include Insidious Onset, Often Progressive