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Neurology




  • ALZHEIMER'S DEMENTIA


This is a degenerative disease affecting the brain, in which there is impaired memory. This is the commonest form of dementia accounting for 65% of dementia in any age group. There is a progressive loss of ability to learn, Loss of motivation, deteriorating social behavior, Loss of emotional control.This disease has a gradual onset and it is rare before the age of 50 years and will usually progress over ten years
What causes Alzheimer’s disease
The onset of alzeheimer dementia is unknown .Some studies have however shown that there is a familial linkage that is can run in families.
Increase free radical formation and failure of the failure of the bodies antioxidants to mop up free radicals has also been Implicated.
Clinical Features
-          There is a progressive loss of ability to learn
-          There is a progressive memory decline
-          Impaired ability to carry out skilled activity, this is known as constructive apraxia
-          Failure to recognize objects, places or people  known as agnosia.
-          Progressive loss of executive function which is ability to planning, organizing  and sequencing activities
-          Social and behavioural changes which may progress to include aggression, agitation, persecutory  delusion and agitation, wandering
-          There is usually a total or relative loss of insight wherein there is no awareness of this  condition.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis is usually based on clinical presentation.
A Mini mental state examination is usually carried out
 Some investigation that can be carried out to exclude other conditions that causes dementia
Includes CT scan, MRI, PET imaging, psychometry, EEG
Some centers that conducts alzheimers research conduct brain biopsy.`
Management of Dementia

There is no definitive cure for dementia, but a lot of research are been conducted into possible cures. The management is usually supportive .This form of management aims to preserve dignity and to provide care for as long as possible.
There are some helpful treatments which includes;
1.       Use of antioxidants mainly Vit E
2.       Anticholinesteras e inhibitors e.g Donepezil, rivastigmine
3.       N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist