Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause irreversible dementia?

• A. Major depressive disorder
• B. Vitamin B12 deficiency
• C. Delirium
• D. Alzheimer's disease

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of dementia, which is a chronic and progressive decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily life and activities.
2. Step 2: Recognize that irreversible dementia refers to cognitive decline that cannot be reversed or significantly improved with treatment.
3. Step 3: Review each condition: Major depressive disorder can cause cognitive symptoms but is often reversible with treatment; Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause cognitive impairment but is typically reversible with supplementation; Delirium is an acute, often reversible state of confusion.
4. Step 4: Identify Alzheimer's disease as a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive and irreversible cognitive decline, making it the most likely cause of irreversible dementia.
5. Step 5: Conclude that among the options, Alzheimer's disease is the condition most associated with irreversible dementia due to its progressive and permanent nature.