Faculty of Health Sciences
(MEDICINE)
NAME:
Mabel Rosario
TUITION
1-21-0273
SUBJECT
Technical Englisch
TOPIC
Alzheimer's Disease
DOCENTE
Dr. Rafael Marmolejos
Santiago de los Caballeros
República Dominicana
23/04/2025
INTRODUCTION
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most
common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all dementia cases worldwide. First
described by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1906, the disease is characterized by the gradual
decline of cognitive functions, including memory, language, problem-solving skills, and
behavioral changes. Alzheimer's primarily affects individuals over the age of 65, but early-
onset forms can occur in younger adults. The hallmark pathological features of AD include
the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles composed of tau
protein in the brain. These abnormalities disrupt neuronal communication and lead to
widespread brain atrophy. As the global population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's
disease is expected to rise, making it a significant public health challenge. This
investigation aims to explore the clinical aspects of Alzheimer's disease, including its signs,
symptoms, causes, prevention strategies, treatment options, and current research
advancements.
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
THE COMPLETE CLINICAL PICTURE OF THE DISEASE
SIGNS
Early Signs :
Subtle memory lapses, such as forgetting recent conversations or misplacing items.
Difficulty finding words during conversations.
Challenges with planning or organizing tasks.
Moderate signs :
Increased confusion about time, place, or identity.
Difficulty recognizing familiar faces or places.
Impaired judgment and decision-making abilities.
Advanced signs:
Severe memory loss, including inability to recognize close family members.
Loss of basic motor skills, such as walking or swallowing.
Complete dependence on caregivers for daily activities.
SYMPTOMS
Cognitive Symptoms :
Progressive memory impairment, starting with short-term memory loss.
Decline in executive function, such as problem-solving and multitasking.
Language difficulties, including trouble naming objects or following conversations.
Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms :
Depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Agitation, aggression, or apathy.
Hallucinations or delusions in advanced stages.
Functional Symptoms :
Difficulty performing routine tasks, such as cooking or managing finances.
Wandering or getting lost in familiar environments.
CAUSES
Genetic Factors :
Mutations in genes such as APP , PSEN1 , and PSEN2 are linked to early-onset
familial Alzheimer's.
The APOE ε4 allele increases the risk of late-onset Alzheimer's.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors :
Head injuries, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic conditions like diabetes or
hypertension.
Sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and smoking.
Pathophysiological Mechanisms :
Accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques leading to inflammation and neuronal
damage.
Formation of tau tangles disrupting intracellular transport and causing cell death.
Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly reduced acetylcholine levels.
PREVENTION
Lifestyle modifications :
Regular physical exercise to improve cardiovascular health and promote neurogenesis.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids (e.g.,
Mediterranean diet).
Cognitive stimulation through puzzles, reading, or learning new skills.
Health management :
Controlling risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Managing stress and maintaining social connections.
Emerging strategies :
Research into anti-inflammatory drugs, antioxidants, and medications targeting amyloid-
beta.
TREATMENT
Pharmacological Interventions :
Cholinesterase Inhibitors : Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine help improve
cognitive function by increasing acetylcholine levels.
NMDA Receptor Antagonists : Memantine regulates glutamate activity to slow cognitive
decline.
Combination Therapies : Combining cholinesterase inhibitors with memantine for moderate
to severe cases.
Non-Pharmacological Approaches :
Cognitive rehabilitation and occupational therapy.
Behavioral interventions to manage agitation and mood disturbances.
Support groups for patients and caregivers.
Experimental Treatments :
Monoclonal antibodies targeting amyloid-beta (e.g., aducanumab, lecanemab).
Gene therapies and stem cell research aimed at halting disease progression.
COMPLICATIONS
Physical Complications :
Increased risk of infections, falls, and malnutrition due to impaired self-care.
Psychological Complications :
Severe depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Caregiver Burden :
Emotional, financial, and physical strain on family members and professional caregivers.
CONCLUSION
Alzheimer's disease is a devastating condition that profoundly impacts individuals,
families, and healthcare systems worldwide. Its progressive nature leads to the gradual
erosion of cognitive abilities, independence, and quality of life. While there is currently no
cure for Alzheimer's, ongoing research has deepened our understanding of its underlying
mechanisms and paved the way for novel therapeutic approaches. Early diagnosis,
combined with pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, can help manage
symptoms and improve patient outcomes. Prevention strategies, including lifestyle
modifications and risk factor management, offer hope for reducing the incidence of the
disease. However, addressing the challenges posed by Alzheimer's requires a
multidisciplinary approach involving medical professionals, researchers, policymakers, and
caregivers. Continued investment in research and public awareness campaigns will be
essential to combat this growing global health crisis and provide better support for those
affected by Alzheimer's disease.
ANNEXES
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Alzheimer's Association. "2023 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures." Retrieved from
https://www.alz.org
National Institute on Aging (NIA). "Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias."
Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov
World Health Organization (WHO). "Dementia: Key Facts." Retrieved from
https://www.who.int
Cummings, J., et al. "Alzheimer's Disease Drug Development Pipeline: 2023." Alzheimer's
& Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions.
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Edition. McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.
Doraiswamy, P. M., & Jefferys, L. S. The Alzheimer's Action Plan: A Guide for Families .
St. Martin's Press, 2020.
