What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) describes a clinical syndrome associated with
shrinking of the frontal and temporal anterior lobes of the brain. Originally
known as Pick’s disease, the name and classification of FTD has been a topic of
discussion for over a century. The current designation of the syndrome groups
together Pick’s disease, primary progressive aphasia, and semantic dementia as
FTD. Some doctors propose adding corticobasal degeneration and progressive
supranuclear palsy to FTD and calling the group Pick Complex. These designations
will continue to be debated. As it is defined today, the symptoms of FTD fall
into two clinical patterns that involve either (1) changes in behavior, or (2)
problems with language. The first type features behavior that can be either
impulsive (disinhibited) or bored and listless (apathetic) and includes
inappropriate social behavior; lack of social tact; lack of empathy;
distractibility; loss of insight into the behaviors of oneself and others; an
increased interest in sex; changes in food preferences; agitation or,
conversely, blunted emotions; neglect of personal hygiene; repetitive or
compulsive behavior, and decreased energy and motivation. The second type
primarily features symptoms of language disturbance, including difficulty making
or understanding speech, often in conjunction with the behavioral type’s
symptoms. Spatial skills and memory remain intact. There is a strong genetic
component to the disease; FTD often runs in families.
Is there any treatment?
No treatment has been shown to slow the progression of FTD. Behavior
modification may help control unacceptable or dangerous behaviors. Aggressive,
agitated, or dangerous behaviors could require medication. Anti-depressants have
been shown to improve some symptoms.
What is the prognosis?
The outcome for people with FTD is poor. The disease progresses steadily and
often rapidly, ranging from less than 2 years in some individuals to more than
10 years in others. Eventually some individuals with FTD will need 24-hour care
and monitoring at home or in an institutionalized care setting.
What research is being done?
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and
other institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conduct research
related to FTD in laboratories at the NIH, and also support additional research
through grants to major medical institutions across the country.
Organizations
Association for Frontotemporal Dementias (AFTD)
1616 Walnut Street, Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19103
info@FTD-Picks.org
www.ftd-picks.org
Tel: 267.514.7221 866.507.7222
Source: National Institutes of Health; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 8/7/2009...#6103
