dementia & parkinsons Flashcards
what is dementia
progressive impairment of multiple domains of cognitive function
multiple types
alzheimers is most common type
how is dementia diagnosed
PMH
medication - anti-cholinergic
cognitive tests
if there is any doubt refer to neuro for brain imaging
what can cause dementia
alcohol genetics infection inflammatory VB12 deficiency
what are cognitive features of dementia
dysmnesia (memory problems)
dysphasia
dyspraxia
dysexecutive
what are some cognitive tests for dementia
MMSE - lower score correlates with poorer ability to preform daily activities
MOCA
what are examples of functional impairment in dementia
problems making calls, using computer, driving, taking medications, cleaning, eating/cooking, finances, personal care
what can mimic dementia
tumour hydrocephalus depression chronic subdural bleed delirium
what type of dementia should you be suspicious of if the patient is under 65
alcohol dementia
what is alzheimers disease
type of dementia
cause unknown
degeneration, or loss, of neurons in the brain, particularly in the cortex
what are risk factors for alzheimers
downs syndrome
family history
hypothyroidism
how does alzheimers present
amnesia disorientation personality changes - but personality lasts longer than in other types reduction in self care paranoia delusional aggression increased sexuality visuospatial problems
what are the main features of alzheimers on investigation
amyloid plaques and tau tangles
atrophy
reduction in acetylcholine
what investigations could you do in alzheimers
bloods SPECT CT MRI CSF EEG histology - BAT - beta amyloid plaques, decreased ACH, neurofibrillary tangles
how do you manage alzheimers
acetylcholinesterase inhibitors:
galantamine
donepezil
rivastigmine
memantine for more severe disease
what is vascular dementia
2nd most common type after alzheimers
infarcts of small and medium sized vessels in brain causes damage resulting in dementia symptoms
