Alzheimer Disease

Alzheimer disease is the most common cause of dementia, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by insidious episodic-memory impairment progressing to global cognitive decline, aphasia, apraxia, agnosia, and executive dysfunction. Neuropathology: beta-amyloid plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles. Onset usually after 65 years (late onset); early-onset familial forms exist. Treatment: cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil/rivastigmine/galantamine), memantine, and supportive/caregiver support; newer anti-amyloid antibodies in selected early cases.

Common Symptoms

Progressive memory loss; disorientation; aphasia; apraxia/agnosia; behavioral change; late-life onset

Causes and Pathogenesis

Amyloid-beta deposition and tau neurofibrillary tangles cause synaptic/neuronal loss in hippocampus and cortex, producing dementia.

Treatment

Cholinesterase inhibitors; memantine; anti-amyloid antibodies in selected early cases; caregiver support; manage comorbidities

Preventive Measures

Vascular risk control; cognitive/social activity; exercise; early diagnosis.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.