2024-02-13 04:07:08
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Frontotemporal dementia is more than just memory loss: it changes the behavior and personality of those affected and represents a major challenge for their relatives.
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rather rare variant among the 50 known forms of dementia, is caused by the death of nerve cells in the frontal and temporal areas of the brain, the frontal lobes and temporal lobes. This special form of dementia was made famous by the famous US actor Bruce Willis. According to the, the exact causes of cell death are: Alzheimer Research Initiative e. v. still largely unexplored. In some patients, genetic changes trigger frontotemporal dementia, also known as “Pick’s disease” or “Pick’s disease”. The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases e. V. (DZNE) states that men and women are equally affected by this form of dementia.
The disease is found to occur more frequently in certain families. Metabolic diseases could also represent a risk factor. The German Alzheimer Society e. v. reported that almost all those affected showed early changes in personality and social behavior.
Five early symptoms of dementia: behavioral problems
The first signs of frontotemporal dementia can appear at a young age. An abrupt change to emotionally blunted or aggressive behavior is characteristic of those affected. (Symbolic image) © Science Photo Library/Imago
The changes in personality and behavior in frontotemporal dementia could be due to the fact that the affected frontal and temporal lobes are responsible, among other things, for controlling emotions and social behavior. The typical early symptoms of frontotemporal dementia include:
- Loss of empathy
- Apathy and indifference
- Disinhibition
- Aggressive, irritable and inappropriate behavior
- Tactlessness
Some patients also suffer from severe language disorders, particularly difficulty finding words. Only later in the course of frontotemporal dementia does memory become impaired, as is the case with Alzheimer’s. On average, frontotemporal dementia occurs between the ages of 50 and 60, much earlier than Alzheimer’s. Some of those affected become ill before the age of 30, others only after the age of 60.
Despite the diagnosis of dementia, those affected should continue to pursue personal goals, manage their affairs, such as finances, with the support of relatives or professional help and, above all, fulfill their final wishes.
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Diagnosis of dementia: a challenge for relatives
Regardless of whether it is Alzheimer’s dementia, vascular dementia, Parkinson’s dementia or frontotemporal dementia, the disease always represents a great challenge and burden for relatives. Over time, the person they once knew always changes more. Living with a person suffering from frontotemporal dementia is particularly difficult due to the disinhibited behavior, aggression and unpredictability of symptoms. The lack of empathy and the increasing disinterest in relatives and friends are often difficult to bear, explains German Alzheimer Society e. v. from reports from those affected.
First signs of dementia: Eleven symptoms can indicate an illness
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Diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia
Diagnosing frontotemporal dementia can be challenging. Due to the severe personality changes and behavioral problems, other illnesses such as mania, schizophrenia, alcohol addiction or depression are often suspected.
It is important that those affected have a doctor who can make an accurate diagnosis, also with the involvement of relatives and according to the exclusion principle. Important and crucial information can be obtained through conversations with relatives. Simple tests such as the Mini-Mental Status Test, the DemTect Test and the Clock Test can provide information about possible dementia. The Frontal Behavioral Inventory test was developed specifically for the diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia. Genetic testing can make diagnosis easier if there is a family history of FTD.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.
The editor wrote this article and then used an AI language model for optimization at her own discretion. All information has been carefully checked. Find out more about our AI principles here.
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