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Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disease, characterized by irreversible degeneration and tissue death of the brain. The condition accounts for approximately 33 million dementia cases each year worldwide.

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The brain can be divided into four main parts, including the cerebrum, brainstem, diencephalon and the cerebellum.

The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is divided into two cerebral hemispheres. Each hemisphere is divided into four lobes:

  • Frontal
  • Temporal
  • Parietal
  • Occipital

The cerebrum also houses the limbic system, which is the main area of the brain involved with emotion and learning. The hippocampus is an area of the limbic system found on the inner aspect of the temporal lobe. It plays a critical role in the formation of new memories.

In Alzheimer’s disease brain damage, or atrophy, can occur primarily in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Brain damage in Alzheimer’s disease results in the gradual impairment of memory, cognitive thinking and physical abilities.

Damage is caused by the build-up of proteins called β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in neurons within the brain. These proteins can be toxic and may accumulate to disrupt the shape and structure of neurons.

The risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease include:

  • Age
  • Genetics
  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus
  • Cerebrovascular diseases
  • Smoking


Causes PDF

The main symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:

  • Progressive memory loss
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Mental health problems, such as depression
  • Motor dysfunction
  • A difficulty in swallowing, or dysphagia
  • The impairment of speech and language, known as aphasia


Symptoms PDF

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are several treatment options to slow down the progression of the condition and improve its symptoms:

  • Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors
  • N-Methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist
  • Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST)
  • Cognitive rehabilitation therapy


Treatments PDF