Dear Ageless Design,

I am interested in information on Lewy Body Dementia. If you could send me some, I would greatly appreciate it.

S

Dear S,

Here is some information and some very good web sites.

Nottingham

Dementia

The following is a copy of a handout written by Babbette Gryboski, RN, of the Alzheimer's Community Care Association in Palm Beach, FL.

DIFFUSE LEWY BODY DISEASE

"In the past 15 years, increasing recognition has been given to this disorder which is now thought to account for the second-most (15% - 25%) prevalent cause of dementing illness following Alzheimer's disease. Onset of Lewy Body Disease is typically between the ages of 60 - 80. Males are more at risk and most cases have been sporadic but some genetic tendencies are seen. The presence of APEO-4 gene is considered a risk factor. The average length of duration is 6 - 8 years.

Several identifying traits are seen pathologically on autopsy in Lewy Body disease: degeneration of the brain is apparent; changes are seen the substantia nigra, an area of the brain stem. The cells of this area are responsible for making the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenalin, therefore deficits occur. These cells die within the disease process;, causing loss of pigment making the area appear pale. The remaining nerve cells contain abnormal structures called Lewy Bodies, which are the landmark of this disease. Lewy Bodies are concentric hyaline inclusions within the cytoplasm of neurons.

Clinical presentation assists many practitioners in distinguishing Lewy Body from other dementias. Violent fluctuations in cognitive abilities from day to day may be present. Theoretically, Lewy body disease manifests itself with symptoms of both Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. However, initial symptoms usually encompass bradykinesia, rigidity, difficulty initiating movements, frequent falls, (shuffling), and syncope or transient loss of consciousness. Behavioral disturbances, such as sever hallucinations, delusions and aggressive (violent) outbursts are common, and the above symptoms usually occur before a true loss of memory is apparent.

In almost all patients, Lewy Body disease is relentless and progressive: the dementia becomes global and severs. Eventually patients become profoundly demented and immobile, and usually succumb to pneumonia after an average of 7 years from the onset of symptoms. Patients with Lewy Body are at risk of catastrophic results with Haldol and neuroleptic agents. These drugs can cause extrapyramidal signs, even if not present already, that are often prolonged, profound and can be fatal. Aricept may prove useful in diffuse Lewy Body Disease."

Hope this helps.

Yours truly,

Mark Warner