by Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is the second most common type of progressive dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. It occurs when abnormal collections of a protein called alpha-synuclein form inside brain cells (neurons). These collections, known as Lewy bodies, can be seen in the brain tissue of people with LBD when examined under a microscope after death. Lewy bodies disrupt the normal functioning of neurons and contribute to the death of brain cells. This results in a decline in mental abilities such as thinking, reasoning, and memory.
Causes And Risk Factors
The exact cause of LBD is unknown, but it involves the abnormal aggregation or clumping together of the alpha-synuclein protein. Genes may play a role, though less than 10% of cases are familial or inherited. Some factors that increase the risk of developing Lewy Body Dementia include:
– Age – Risk increases with age, with most people developing it over the age of 60.
– Gender – Men are more likely to develop LBD than women.
– Family history – Having a first-degree relative like a parent or sibling with LBD may slightly increase risk.
– Head injuries – A history of repeated head traumas or concussions are associated with increased risk.
– Parkinson’s disease – Having Parkinson’s disease increases the chances of also developing LBD.
Symptoms Of Lewy Body Dementia
The symptoms of LBD can vary significantly in their type and severity from person to person. Common signs and symptoms include:
– Cognitive decline – Difficulty with attention, planning, organizing tasks, learning new information, and impaired judgment. Short-term memory loss.
– Movement problems – Tremor at rest, slow movement, stiff muscles, impaired balance and coordination issues leading to falls.
– Psychological and behavioral changes – Hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, depression, apathy, suspiciousness, and alterations in sleep patterns are common.
– Problems with alertness and attention – Drowsiness or dazing (reduced alertness) is frequently reported by individuals with LBD and caregivers. This symptom can fluctuate significantly throughout the day.
Diagnosis Of LBD
Diagnosing LBD can be challenging because symptoms can overlap with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. A thorough clinical evaluation will include:
– Medical history and exam focusing on cognitive and movement related signs.
– Lab tests to rule out other possible causes like thyroid problems, syphilis, or vitamin deficiencies.
– Neuropsychological assessment to evaluate cognition and function.
– Brain scan to rule out other conditions and check for signs of atrophy (shrinkage) common in LBD.
– Looking for Lewy bodies in brain tissue after death provides the most definitive confirmation of a diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia. This is only done during an autopsy.
Treatment And Management Of Symptoms
Unfortunately there is no cure for LBD. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Some approaches include:
– Medications to help with cognition, behavior issues, and motor symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors are often used but response is variable. Antipsychotics should be avoided or used cautiously due to risk of neuroleptic sensitivity.
– Physical, occupational and speech therapy to address physical decline and provide strategies to improve independent functioning.
– Manage non-motor symptoms like hallucinations, delusions and anxiety through tailored medication and psychosocial interventions.
– Caregiver education on the condition and strategies to support individuals with LBD.
– Participation in cognitive stimulation activities and social support to help enhance brain cell function and reduce psychological distress.
Prognosis For Lewy Body Dementia
The average life expectancy after diagnosis ranges from 5 to 6.5 years for LBD, depending on severity. However it’s difficult to predict an accurate disease course as it can vary widely from person to person. Most individuals with LBD eventually require full-time care. Death is usually due to complications of the underlying brain degeneration, such as pneumonia from aspiration, rather than the disease itself. There is currently no way to reverse the damage caused by Lewy bodies in the brain. However early diagnosis may allow for better treatment of symptoms.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Priya Pandey
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