Alzheimer’s Disease
SR NO. TOPIC PAGE
1 Introduction 1
2 Stages of 2-3
Alzheimers
3 History of 4-5
Alzheimers
4 Causes of 6-7
Alzheimers
5 Symptoms of 8-9
Alzheimers
6 Diagnosis and 10 - 11
Test
7 Treatment 12 - 13
Outlook /
8 Prognosis 14 - 15
9 Conclusion 16 - 17
10 Bibliography 18
Definition: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects
memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia.
Global Impact: Over 50
million people worldwide
are living with dementia,
with Alzheimer’s
contributing to 60–70%
of these cases.
Key Characteristics:
• Gradual memory loss.
• Cognitive decline.
• Difficulty in daily tasks and communication.
Importance: Understanding Alzheimer’s is crucial for early diagnosis, effective
management, and support for individuals and caregivers.
1906: Discovered by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German psychiatrist and
neuropathologist.
• Observed symptoms of memory loss, confusion, and unpredictable behavior
in a patient named Auguste Deter.
• During the autopsy, he identified abnormal clumps (amyloid plaques) and
tangled fibers (neurofibrillary tangles) in her brain.
1910: The term "Alzheimer's disease" was first used by Dr. Emil Kraepelin in his
textbook Psychiatrie.
Mid-20th Century:
Research identified it as
a distinct form
of dementia, linked to
aging.
1980s:
• Advances in
imaging and
biochemistry
revealed the
roles of amyloid
beta and tau
proteins.
• Establishment of organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association to fund
research and support patients.
21st Century:
• Growth in public awareness, diagnostics, and research into potential
treatments.
• Ongoing studies aim to delay or prevent disease progression.
1. Biological Factors
• Amyloid Plaques: Accumulation of beta-amyloid protein between nerve cells,
disrupting cell communication.
• Neurofibrillary Tangles: Twisted tau protein fibers inside brain cells, leading to
cell death.
• Neurotransmitter Deficiency: Decreased levels of chemicals like acetylcholine,
essential for memory and learning.
2. Genetic Factors
• Family History: Increased risk
if close relatives have Alzheimer’s.
• APOE-e4 Gene: A specific
variant of the APOE gene associated
with higher risk.
3. Lifestyle and Environmental
Factors
• Cardiovascular Health: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and
obesity increase risk.
• Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries may contribute to early onset.
• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, poor diet, and lack of physical activity can raise
risk.
4. Aging
• Primary Risk Factor: The likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s increases
significantly after age 65.
1. Early Symptoms
• Memory Loss: Forgetting recent events or conversations.
• Difficulty Planning or Problem-Solving: Struggling with tasks like managing
finances or following a recipe.
• Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates or getting lost in familiar
settings.
• Misplacing Objects: Frequently losing items and being unable to retrace
steps.
2. Moderate Symptoms
• Language Problems: Trouble finding the right words or following
conversations.
• Changes in Mood or Personality: Increased irritability, depression, or anxiety.
• Difficulty with Daily Tasks: Needing help with dressing, eating, or personal
hygiene.
• Social Withdrawal: Avoiding work, hobbies, or social interactions.
3. Severe Symptoms
• Significant Memory Loss: Forgetting family members or lifelong memories.
• Loss of Physical Abilities: Difficulty walking, swallowing, or controlling bodily
functions.
• Behavioral Changes: Increased aggression, delusions, or hallucinations .
