
ALZHEIMER DEMENTIA SYNDROME

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Alzheimer Dementia Syndrome
Alzheimer's dementia syndrome, colloquially known as Alzheimer's for short, is a type of dementia that usually affects people aged 65 and over. The slowly progressive death of nerve cells in the brain due to protein deposits leads to memory loss, confusion and disorientation.
Alzheimer Dementia Syndrome

Causes of Alzheimer dementia syndrome
Causes
The exact causes of accelerated brain deterioration in Alzheimer's dementia are not yet fully understood. Both genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. A family predisposition can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Age and hereditary factors are believed to have a major influence on the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's dementia.
Deposition of plaques in the brain
Protein deposits in the brain play an important role in the development of Alzheimer's dementia. Two types of proteins have been identified, called beta-amyloid and tau. In Alzheimer's patients, these proteins are deposited in the brain in the form of plaques and fibrils. Normally these proteins are broken down. In Alzheimer's patients, this clean-up process in the brain no longer works, which inhibits the energy and oxygen supply to the brain and the nerve cells ultimately die.
Genetic predisposition
5-15% of people who develop Alzheimer's disease have a familial history. In half of these cases, Alzheimer's occurs early, before the age of 65, and is usually caused by certain changes in the genetic makeup, more specifically in the gene called ApoE (Apo-Lipoprotein E).
Risk factors that promote the disease
⎯⎯• High blood pressure
⎯⎯• Diabetes