2019 October 22 | Zoe Arvanitakis, MD, MS; Raj C. Shah, MD; David A. Bennett, MD
Dementia is a common public health issue affecting 47 million people globally, expected to rise to 131 million by 2050. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause, affecting 5.8 million people in the US. Dementia involves cognitive decline in multiple domains, often accompanied by other neuropathologies like cerebrovascular disease. Diagnosis requires a detailed history, cognitive and physical exams, and may involve neuropsychological testing or brain imaging. Non-pharmacologic approaches, such as cognitive activities, physical exercise, and social engagement, are recommended. Pharmacologic treatments include acetylcholinesterase inhibitors for mild-to-severe dementia and memantine for moderate-to-severe dementia. Rivastigmine is approved for Parkinson's disease dementia. Diagnosis and management should consider both non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions. Mixed dementia is common, with AD and cerebrovascular disease being the most frequent combination. Other neurodegenerative conditions like Lewy body disease and frontotemporal dementia also contribute to dementia. Evaluation includes blood tests, imaging, and genetic testing in atypical cases. Management focuses on reducing symptoms and delaying progression, with a focus on caregiver support and safety. Pharmacologic treatments have limited efficacy, and non-pharmacologic strategies are often preferred. Caregiver education and interventions are crucial for managing dementia. Dementia is often accompanied by neuropsychiatric symptoms, requiring careful management. Overall, a comprehensive approach combining non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic strategies is essential for effective dementia care.Dementia is a common public health issue affecting 47 million people globally, expected to rise to 131 million by 2050. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause, affecting 5.8 million people in the US. Dementia involves cognitive decline in multiple domains, often accompanied by other neuropathologies like cerebrovascular disease. Diagnosis requires a detailed history, cognitive and physical exams, and may involve neuropsychological testing or brain imaging. Non-pharmacologic approaches, such as cognitive activities, physical exercise, and social engagement, are recommended. Pharmacologic treatments include acetylcholinesterase inhibitors for mild-to-severe dementia and memantine for moderate-to-severe dementia. Rivastigmine is approved for Parkinson's disease dementia. Diagnosis and management should consider both non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions. Mixed dementia is common, with AD and cerebrovascular disease being the most frequent combination. Other neurodegenerative conditions like Lewy body disease and frontotemporal dementia also contribute to dementia. Evaluation includes blood tests, imaging, and genetic testing in atypical cases. Management focuses on reducing symptoms and delaying progression, with a focus on caregiver support and safety. Pharmacologic treatments have limited efficacy, and non-pharmacologic strategies are often preferred. Caregiver education and interventions are crucial for managing dementia. Dementia is often accompanied by neuropsychiatric symptoms, requiring careful management. Overall, a comprehensive approach combining non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic strategies is essential for effective dementia care.