Neuroimaging is widely used in the evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Traditionally, imaging in Alzheimer’s disease has been used to exclude other diseases and neurological conditions that produce similar cognitive symptoms. Recently, however, neuroimaging has been explored for its potential in predicting clinical outcomes in subjects before the onset of Alzheimer’s disease or as surrogate markers for monitoring the course of treatment. While these experimental uses tend to be more exploratory than of current clinical application, the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease has unquestionably been advanced with the inclusion of neuroimaging. (more…)

Some genetic mutations appear to accelerate certain features of aging only within a single tissue. There are a very large number of these conditions, which might be referred to as unimodal progeroid syndromes. Here only three examples are considered: one that has a major impact on sun-exposed skin, one that results in an early onset of the most common form of dementia alzheimer, Alzheimer’s disease, and another that results in early-onset Parkinson’s disease. (more…)

Approximately 35% of the factors that influence life expectancy are inherited. Accelerated aging is therefore usually associated with genetic abnormalities. None of the accelerated aging syndromes, however, leads to a uniform, systematic “speeding up” of the aging process. A number of genetic disorders can lead to premature or accelerated aging (also referred to as progerias), including Down syndrome, Hutchinson– Gilford syndrome, and Werner’s syndrome. (more…)

Addiction is more than frequent drug use. Recent scientific research provides strong evidence that drugs not only interfere with normal brain functioning but also have long-term effects on brain metabolism and activity. Those addicted to drugs experience compulsive drug craving and cannot quit by themselves. Treatment of dementia is necessary to end this compulsive behavior. (more…)