Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia among older individuals, with genetics and aging being two of the most potent risk factors. The course of AD dementia is characterized by early memory impairment, along with progressive decline in other cognitive functions, often with associated behavioral changes. The diagnosis of AD dementia can be made with the basic elements of a good clinical history of illness, neurological examination and laboratory/imaging testing. Several in vivo biomarkers of AD are available and while primarily focused on recognition of earlier stages of AD, may have potential roles in the setting of the demented patient. The treatment of AD addresses cognitive and behavioral symptoms with symptomatic treatments. Although disease modifying strategies are under study, the current therapies have not been shown to slow progression of the disease. Several lifestyle interventions that may have a pro-cognitive effect should be encouraged.
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Dr. Bernick is a speaker for Allergan.
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Bernick, C. (2017). Alzheimer’s Disease. In: Tousi, B., Cummings, J. (eds) Neuro-Geriatrics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-56484-5_4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-56484-5_4
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