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Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal Dementia
What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia is a group of disorders that occur when the nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain are damaged, causing the lobes to shrink. It can affect:
- Behavior
- Personality
- Language
- Movement
Frontotemporal dementia is among the most common types of dementias that strike at younger ages. About 250,000 Americans have frontotemporal dementia. Symptoms typically start between the ages of 40 and 65.
Causes of Frontotemporal Dementia
The cause of frontotemporal dementia is unknown. Researchers have linked certain subtypes of frontotemporal dementia to mutations on several genes. The most common is a mutation called C9ORF72, which was discovered in 2011. It can cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gherig's disease, and a combination of both diseases. Other common mutations include MAPT and progranulin.
A family history of frontotemporal dementia is the only known risk for these diseases. Although experts believe that some cases of frontotemporal dementia are inherited, the majority of people with frontotemporal dementia have no family history of it or other types of dementia.
Learn more about the causes of dementia.
Frontotemporal Dementia Symptoms
Symptoms of frontotemporal dementia start gradually and progress steadily. In some cases, it may progress rapidly. Symptoms vary from person to person, depending on the areas of the brain involved.
Common symptoms of frontotemporal dementia include behavioral and dramatic personality changes, such as:
- Socially inappropriate, impulsive or repetitive behaviors
- Increased interest in sex
- Deterioration in personal hygiene and decreased self-awareness
- Frequent mood changes or agitation
- Difficulty planning and organizing
Other symptoms include:
- Impaired judgment
- Apathy or loss of energy and motivation
- Lack of empathy
- Loss of interest in normal activities or emotional withdrawal
A third category of symptoms may affect the ability to use or understand language. This may include:
- Difficulty naming objects
- Difficulty expressing words or understanding the meanings of words
- Hesitation when speaking
- Less frequent speech
Types of Frontotemporal Dementia
There are two main types of frontotemporal dementia:
- Frontal variant: Affects a person's personality and behavior
- Primary progressive aphasia: Affects a person's speech centers and has two subcategories:
- Progressive non-fluent aphasia: Affects ability to speak
- Semantic dementia: Affects ability to use and understand language
Frontotemporal Dementia Diagnosis
Family members are often the first to notice subtle changes in a person's behavior or language skills. If you suspect symptoms of dementia in a family member or loved one, it is important to see a doctor as early as possible to discuss:
- Symptoms
- Family medical history
- Any medication you take
While no single test can diagnose frontotemporal dementia, if we suspect dementia, we may order tests to help confirm diagnosis:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT)
- PET scans
- Genetic testing
- Neurological evaluation, which tests an individual's:
- Reflexes, coordination and balance
- Muscle strength and muscle tone
- Sense of touch
- Sight
Frontotemporal Dementia Treatments
Currently, no treatments can cure or slow the progression of frontotemporal dementia. We may prescribe medications to treat symptoms and to help maintain quality of life. Some symptoms of dementia that we can successfully manage with medication include:
- Anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
- Insomnia and related sleep disturbances
Additionally, speech and language pathologists and physical and occupational therapists can help an individual adjust to some of the changes caused by frontotemporal dementia.
Learn more about managing frontotemporal dementia and home remedies to support brain health.
Frontotemporal Dementia Complications
Frontotemporal dementia is not life-threatening. A person may live with frontotemporal dementia for years.
As frontotemporal dementia progressively worsens, an individual may:
- Engage in dangerous behaviors
- No longer be able to care for himself or herself
- Require 24-hour nursing care
- Require an assisted living facility or nursing home.
Pneumonia is the most common cause of death in those who have frontotemporal dementia. They also are at increased risk for infections and fall-related injuries.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Our specialists expertly diagnose and manage frontotemporal dementia, helping improve symptoms so individuals can have a higher quality of life.
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