Frontotemporal dementia

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a group of disorders characterized by the progressive loss of nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. FTD is also known as frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), Pick's disease, and semantic dementia. The symptoms of FTD can include personality and behavior changes, language difficulties, and motor problems.

Symptoms

The symptoms of FTD can vary, depending on the specific areas of the brain affected. Some people with FTD show dramatic changes in their personality and become socially inappropriate, impulsive or emotionally indifferent, while others lose the ability to use and understand language.

Causes

FTD is caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The reasons for this degeneration are still unknown, but in some cases, genetic mutations have been identified.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of FTD can be challenging because it often overlaps with other conditions, including Alzheimer's disease. However, early diagnosis can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for FTD, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These can include medication, physical therapy, and speech therapy.

Prognosis

The progression of FTD varies from person to person. Some people live almost as long as those without the disease, while others may experience rapid progression of symptoms and severe disability.

See also

• Alzheimer's disease
• Dementia
• Pick's disease
• Semantic dementia

References

Frontotemporal dementia Resources
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