HIV dementia mechanism discovered
Researchers found dopamine transporter injury in HIV dementia patients, suggesting a new direction for treatment. The study suggests that viral suppression may lead to recovery of deficits in the dopamine system.
Dementia
Articles tagged with Dementia
Tip sheet for the August 24, 2004 Neurology journal
Feldman et al report that donepezil treatment for six days is associated with a total societal cost saving of $224 per patient. The American Brain Coalition (ABC) was established to advocate for increased support for biomedical research.
Researchers put gingko on trial for treatment of dementia
A study of 250 patients aged over 55 will examine whether prescribing GPs a supplement can help those with memory loss. Gingko may slow down dementia's degenerative process through improving blood flow and thinning the blood.
Medication helps quell the agitation of dementia
A new study led by Dr. Pierre Tariot found that quetiapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is effective in reducing agitation in patients with dementia, with a lower risk of side effects compared to other medications. The medication has shown no serious side effects so far and offers a new therapeutic option for patients and their families.
Highlights of Washington University Alzheimer's Research at National Conference
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine presented multiple studies highlighting the relationship between stress and Alzheimer's disease severity, as well as identifying predictive brain changes. These findings may lead to improved treatments and early detection methods for the devastating disease.
Brain imaging techniques sharpen focus on Alzheimer's
Recent advances in brain imaging may allow early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and other dementias, as well as improved assessment of treatment effectiveness. Researchers have developed new PET technologies to visualize abnormal protein accumulations in the brain, which may help differentiate between Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Coronary artery bypass surgery not a risk factor for dementia
A new Mayo Clinic study finds that CABG surgery is not a risk factor for dementia, but patients may experience cognitive decline due to surgical complications. The study took an innovative approach by starting with dementia cases and comparing them to non-demented control groups.
Obesity, diet, inactivity linked to dementia risk
Eating spinach and broccoli may slow cognitive decline; green leafy vegetables are associated with better brain health; complex leisure activities combining social, mental, and physical activity can prevent dementia.
Medicare claims for Alzheimer's disease skyrocket 250 percent
The cost of care for those with Alzheimer's is projected to rise dramatically, with direct costs alone increasing by 60-200% as the disease progresses, and reaching $50 billion in less than 10 years.
No clear-cut answers on statins as therapy for Alzheimer's disease
Research on statins as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease has yielded conflicting results, with some studies showing improved cognitive function and others finding no benefit. Large-scale clinical trials are needed to resolve the questions raised by these studies.
Study: Dementia often undiagnosed in clinical settings
A study published in the Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences confirms that dementia is often misdiagnosed or left undiagnosed in clinical settings. Researchers found that nearly 60% of patients with mild cognitive impairment and over 70% of those with moderate-to-severe impairment experienced adverse events, yet only a small perce...
Alzheimer's disease, other dementias target of major NIH designation for UCSF
The new Center will integrate resources between clinical and basic research programs to enhance understanding of dementia, improve diagnostics, and develop new treatments. The Center will focus on both Alzheimer's disease and non-Alzheimer's forms of dementia.
Estrogen therapy does not reduce dementia risk
A study found that estrogen alone did not reduce the risk of dementia in older women, doubling the risk compared to placebo. Global cognition also showed no improvement and was even adversely affected in some cases.
Estrogen-alone hormone therapy could increase risk of dementia in older women
A recent study found that estrogen-alone hormone therapy may increase the risk of dementia in older postmenopausal women by 49%. This is compared to a placebo group where no such increase was observed. The researchers also found that almost half of the cases in both groups were Alzheimer's disease.
Use of estrogen does not reduce risk of dementia in older women
Research suggests that estrogen therapy does not reduce the risk of dementia in older women. The study found a 76% increased risk for probable dementia among those taking estrogen compared to placebo. Hormone therapy also increased the risk of mild cognitive impairment and decline in global cognitive function.
Patients with Parkinson disease and high homocysteine levels may be more likely to be depressed
A study of 97 Parkinson's disease patients found that those with elevated homocysteine levels were more depressed, had worse cognitive functioning, but no difference in physical functioning. High homocysteine levels are likely due to the use of levodopa in these patients.
Combination of factors helps estimate prognosis for patients with advanced dementia
Researchers developed a practical risk score to predict survival in patients with advanced dementia, considering factors like Activities of Daily Living score, sex, cancer, and oxygen therapy need. The tool offers an improvement over existing guidelines, providing reasonable accuracy for estimating six-month prognosis.
Temple virologist receives NIH grant to continue investigation of HIV dementia complex
A Temple virologist has received a grant to investigate the role of macrophages in HIV dementia complex. The researcher aims to understand how these cells contribute to the development of the condition, which affects 10% of AIDS patients, and explore potential therapies to target them.
Key immune system protein reduced in HIV-associated dementia patients
Researchers discovered reduced lysozyme levels in HIV-demented patients' macrophages, suggesting impaired immune function and increased vulnerability to infections. The finding could lead to a marker for monitoring disease progression and potential new treatment targets.
Dad's death helps national expert evaluate end-of-life care
Since 1991, end-of-life care has seen significant improvements in palliative care and hospice availability. Timothy Quill's father's death provided a unique opportunity to illustrate the good and bad in end-of-life care, highlighting the need for consistent availability of care options.
American Academy of Neurology sums up scientific highlights from 56th Annual Meeting
Research highlights disparities in stroke risk among Mexican-Americans and findings on treatment advancements for conditions like sickle cell disease and epilepsy. Studies also explore dementia prevalence in HIV-infected populations and the impact of diabetes and military service on neurological diseases.
SPECT imaging shows promise for accurate, early diagnosis of Alzheimer's
Researchers at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center developed a new SPECT imaging test that can accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease in its early stages. The test identifies reduced blood flow in the posterior cingulate cortex, allowing doctors to identify AD patients significantly sooner than current methods.
Hidden cost of depression in seniors: $9 billion in care from spouses, children
A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that moderately depressed seniors require significantly more hours of care than those without symptoms. If caregivers were paid for their work, the annual cost would be approximately $9 billion, highlighting the impact of depression on seniors and their loved ones.
Mid-life heart disease risk factors linked to dementia in late-life
Researchers linked mid-life heart disease risk factors to increased dementia risk later in life. The study of over 11,000 participants found that those with four key risk factors had nearly three times the chance of developing dementia compared to those with none. Presence of each risk factor added a 20-40% greater risk for developing ...
OHSU study: Rate of brain volume loss predicts dementia
Researchers found that the rate of total brain volume loss can predict which mildly cognitively impaired individuals are at high risk of developing dementia. Combining this with hippocampus volume measurements provides a strong model for predicting cognitive outcomes.
Dementia, sensory neuropathy in sub-Saharan HIV-positive patients
HIV-positive individuals in sub-Saharan Africa exhibit high rates of dementia (11%) and painful sensory neuropathy (51%), with those with low CD4 counts showing even more severe impairment. A rapid screening test may help identify these conditions in resource-limited settings.
Damage to brain vessels increases the chance of dementia and depression
Elderly individuals with white matter abnormalities and infarcts exhibited accelerated cognitive decline compared to those with fewer abnormalities. A serious increase in white matter lesions was associated with a higher risk of developing dementia and depression over a period of five years.
Reading test may validly estimate pre-dementia functioning
Researchers found that a widely used reading test, the National Adult Reading Test (NART), can accurately predict an individual's pre-dementia cognitive abilities. The study compared NART scores with IQ scores from childhood and showed no significant difference between demented and non-demented individuals in terms of NART scores.
Monitoring macrophages detects dementia
Researchers have successfully used PET imaging to detect dementia in macaque models. The study utilized the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor to identify macrophage activity, which is linked to neurodegeneration.
Smoking linked to accelerated cognitive decline in the elderly
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found a strong link between smoking and accelerated cognitive decline in elderly individuals. Smoking was shown to lower MMSE scores by up to .16 points per year, with higher cigarette pack-year exposure leading to greater declines.
Going low tech, low cost to ease the terrors of dementia
Researchers explore simple measures to improve the lives of nursing home residents with dementia. Simple pleasures like warm water bottles, fleece muffs, and creating memory boxes can reduce agitation and promote calmness.
New study supports use of PET scans in early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease
A new study supports the use of PET scans in early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in its early stages. The study identifies a new PET technique that can clearly identify brain connections altered by Alzheimer's, leading to higher accuracy in diagnosing the condition.
Search for screening method to help decide when early-Alzheimer's patients should stop driving
Visuospatial tests were found to be the most reliable predictors of driving skill in individuals with early-Alzheimer's disease. Neuropsychological testing can help identify at-risk drivers and inform clinical decisions about driving restrictions.
New method of distinguishing Alzheimer's from Lewy body dementia
Researchers have identified four key characteristics that reliably distinguish Lewy body dementia (DLB) from Alzheimer's disease (AD). These include daytime drowsiness, falling asleep during the day, staring into space, and disorganized speech. The discovery aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of DLB.
Down syndrome study reveals possible method for detecting initial stages of Alzheimer’s
Researchers found that brain scans show increased metabolic activity in the temporal cortex, where Alzheimer's disease commonly develops, in adults with Down syndrome. The study suggests that this may be an early indicator of Alzheimer's, potentially allowing for early detection using a common PET scan procedure.
Stroke may increase risk of Alzheimer disease
Researchers found a significant association between stroke and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in older patients. Patients with a history of stroke were 60% more likely to develop AD, with the risk highest among those with established vascular risk factors.
Caregivers for patients with dementia need more support before patient dies, less after
A new study suggests that caregivers of patients with end-of-life dementia experience high levels of depressive symptoms while caring for their loved ones, but exhibit clinically lower depression after the patient's death. The research also found that caregivers report feeling relieved when their loved one passes away.
New technique helps shed light on progression of dementia
Researchers found that blocking blood flow to the brain, like mini-strokes, can impair mental function by reducing nerve cell fibers that use acetylcholine. This study provides insight into the effects of cerebral blood flow disruption on cognitive decline in dementia, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy blood vessels.
Caregivers of family members with dementia experience more health problems than noncaregivers
A meta-analysis found that caregivers experience higher levels of stress hormones and lower antibody responses, leading to increased risk for various health problems. The study highlights the need for interventions to support caregiver health, which can benefit both caregivers and their care recipients.
PET scan predicts Alzheimer's more accurately
A new study reveals that PET scans can significantly improve the accuracy of predicting Alzheimer's disease progression in patients with early memory complaints. By analyzing brain metabolic patterns, doctors can better diagnose and intervene earlier, potentially delaying cognitive decline.
Unusual form of memory loss often confused for Alzheimer's disease
Primary progressive aphasia is a rare form of dementia that affects language abilities while preserving memory. Patients may struggle with word-finding and speaking, but can still recall recent events and maintain complex hobbies.
Driving performance declines with dementia and age
People with mild dementia decline faster than nondemented individuals in driving performance, but also some nondemented participants show decline. Longitudinal driving test every six months can identify those who become unsafe, increasing awareness about driving issues in demented persons and empowering families to intervene.
Tip sheet for August 26 Neurology and more news
Donepezil has been shown to improve cognitive function in vascular dementia patients, while a study found that brain volume loss can predict Alzheimer's disease. However, a clinical trial of topiramate in ALS patients found no benefits and an increased risk of adverse events.
SFVAMC researchers distinguish dementias using brain imaging
Studies found that patients with vascular dementia had less NAA in regions involved in short-term memory and language, while those with Alzheimer's had substantial NAA deficits. Accuracy improved when combining MRI and MR spectroscopy measures, suggesting potential for recovery through drug treatment.
Higher education or larger brain size may protect against dementia later in life, new study finds
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology found that higher education or a larger brain size may help delay dementia. The research, based on data from the Nun Study, suggests that having more years of formal education or better early brain development can provide extra reserve for cognitive funct...
News tips for the June 24 issue of Neurology
Researchers discuss new findings on HIV-associated dementia and its potential association with the presence of MDM. Additionally, studies suggest that treating post-Lyme disease with antibiotics does not provide benefits, while a possible link is found between insulin and Alzheimer's disease risk factors.
Molecular fingerprint predicts HIV-associated dementia
Researchers have identified a molecular fingerprint unique to individuals with HIV-associated dementia (HAD), suggesting the potential development of a simple blood test for its diagnosis. The study used proteomics to analyze protein patterns in patients and found correlations between certain proteins and HAD.
New herbal drug therapy effective in treating vascular dementia
Researchers found that a Chinese herbal medicine called gastrodine compound granule significantly improved memory and behavioral scores in patients with mild to moderate vascular dementia. The study showed a 51.43% improvement rate, compared to 52% for the standard medication Duxilâ.
Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, June 3, 2003
The US Preventive Services Task Force finds insufficient evidence to recommend routine dementia screening in older adults. Alternative therapies for lower back pain, including spinal manipulation and massage, have small clinical benefits, while acupuncture's effectiveness remains unclear.
Federal task force study on dementia screening
A federal task force study has found that there is insufficient data to support the practice of routine dementia screening in primary care settings. The study suggests that the potential benefits of early diagnosis may outweigh the risks, but more research is needed to confirm this.
Common hormone therapy doubles dementia risk
A recent study found that combined hormone therapy increases the risk of dementia in women over 65, doubling the risk compared to placebo groups. The research suggests that hormone replacement therapy may be more harmful than helpful for preventing age-associated memory loss.
Rates of dementia increase among older women on combination hormone therapy
Researchers found that women taking estrogen and progestin experienced a twice increased risk of dementia compared to those on placebo pills over a 5-year period. The most common type of dementia was probable Alzheimer's disease, accounting for 66% of cases.
Combination hormone replacement therapy doubles dementia risk
A recent study by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that combination hormone therapy increases the risk of probable dementia in women aged 65 and older, with approximately 23 additional cases per year. The study's results highlight the importance of considering alternative approaches to preventing cognitive decline.
Artist’s work evolves despite dementia
A woman with frontotemporal dementia transforms her painting style from realistic to more expressive and emotionally charged as her language abilities decline. Her artwork showcases an intense emotional and impressionistic style, revealing the release of frontal lobe functions involved in social restraints.
Eating bats linked to neurological disease
The Chamorro people's consumption of cycad-fed flying foxes may have led to high incidence of ALS-PDC, a neurodegenerative disease. Studies show that eating wild animals with unknown health risks can be particularly hazardous.
Poorly controlled diabetes could lead to dementia in the elderly
Researchers found that poorly controlled diabetes in adults aged 60 and older is associated with lower cognitive function scores. The study suggests that improving blood sugar control may help reverse dementia related to diabetes.
Two new studies showed Alzheimer's disease treatment beneficial in other memory-related conditions
Two new studies presented at the American Academy of Neurology meeting found that ARICEPT treatment improved cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and reduced behavioral symptoms in those with Parkinson's-related dementia. These findings provide encouraging news for millions of Americans affected by MCI.
New study finds moderate alcohol consumption linked to lower risk of dementia in older adults
A new study published in JAMA found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with a lower risk of dementia in older adults. The study analyzed data from 373 dementia patients and 373 control subjects, finding that moderate drinkers had a 54% lower risk of dementia compared to abstainers.
National Census finds most US counties don't have enough adult day centers
The National Census found that only 3,407 adult day centers are operating in the US, serving primarily individuals with dementia and frail elderly. However, a staggering 5,415 new centers are needed nationwide to address the growing demand for long-term care services.
Diagnosing dementia in the developing world
A new field-tested algorithm for dementia diagnosis can predict 94% of cases in less-developed countries. The algorithm is culturally and educationally sensitive, using measures translated into most languages used in the developing world.