Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Typically, the disease progresses in a prolonged, inexorable manner [1]. Patients initially show symptoms of mild cognitive impairment, which may include some memory loss. As the disease progresses, more severe memory loss occurs (e.g., retrograde amnesia) leading to confusion and lack of orientation. The patient is often institutionalized in this period, as it becomes increasingly difficult for family members to cope with the constant requirements of care. In later stages of the disease, apathy and stupor can occur, and the patient becomes bedridden.
History
Chapter number
1
Pagination
1-4
ISBN-13
9781852339616
ISBN-10
1852339616
Language
eng
Publication classification
B1.1 Book chapter, B Book chapter
Copyright notice
2006, Springer
Extent
16
Editor/Contributor(s)
Barrow C, Small D
Publisher
Springer
Place of publication
London
Title of book
Abeta peptide and Alzheimer's disease : celebrating a century of research