What
is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimers disease (AD) is a progressive,
neurodegenerative disease characterized in the brain by abnormal
clumps (amyloid plaques) and tangled bundles of fibers (neurofibrillary
tangles) composed of misplaced proteins. Age is the most important
risk factor for AD; the number of people with the disease
doubles every 5 years beyond age 65. Three genes have been
discovered that cause early onset (familial) AD. Other genetic
mutations that cause excessive accumulation of amyloid protein
are associated with age-related (sporadic) AD. Symptoms of
AD include memory loss, language deterioration, impaired ability
to mentally manipulate visual information, poor judgment,
confusion, restlessness, and mood swings. Eventually AD destroys
cognition, personality, and the ability to function. The early
symptoms of AD, which include forgetfulness and loss of concentration,
are often missed because they resemble natural signs of aging.
Is
there any treatment?
There is no cure for Alzheimers and no way
to slow the progression of the disease. For some people in
the early or middle stages of AD, medication such as tacrine
(Cognex) may alleviate some cognitive symptoms. Donepezil
(Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Reminyl)
may keep some symptoms from becoming worse for a limited time.
Also, some medications may help control behavioral symptoms
such as sleeplessness, agitation, wandering, anxiety, and
depression.
What
is the prognosis?
Alzheimers is a progressive disease, but
its course can vary from 5 to 20 years. The most common cause
of death in AD patients is infection.
What
research is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports research on neurodegenerative
and dementing disorders, including Alzheimers.
Scientists are currently studying or testing different types
of drugs and other substances to determine if they can stop
AD progression, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDS), statins (such as those used for lowering cholesterol),
folic acid, gingko biloba, and vitamins E, B6, and B12. Studies
in basic science are also exploring the potential of vaccines.
The National Institute on Aging and the National Institute
of Mental Health also support research related to Alzheimers.
| ninds.nih.gov
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