Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation

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Disease Pathology, Signs and Symptoms, and Accepted/Experimental Treatments

Disease: Alzheimer's Disease (AD)

Pathology

AD is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of neurons in the brain. The hallmark pathological features of AD are the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Amyloid plaques are composed of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid, which is derived from a larger protein called amyloid precursor protein (APP). Neurofibrillary tangles are composed of a protein called tau, which has become abnormally phosphorylated.

Full Answer Section

      The accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles is thought to disrupt communication between neurons and lead to their eventual death. The loss of neurons in the brain is responsible for the cognitive decline and memory loss that are characteristic of AD. Signs and Symptoms The early signs and symptoms of AD can be subtle and may be mistaken for normal aging. However, as the disease progresses, the signs and symptoms become more pronounced and can include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty with language
• Problems with visuospatial skills
• Impaired judgment
• Changes in personality
• Behavioral problems

Accepted Treatments There is currently no cure for AD. However, there are a number of medications that can help to slow the progression of the disease and manage the symptoms. These medications include:

• Cholinesterase inhibitors: These medications work by increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is important for memory and cognition. Examples of cholinesterase inhibitors include donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne).
• N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists: These medications work by blocking the NMDA receptor, a type of glutamate receptor that is involved in learning and memory. The only NMDA receptor antagonist currently approved for the treatment of AD is memantine (Namenda).

In addition to medication, there are a number of other interventions that can help to manage the symptoms of AD and improve quality of life. These interventions include:

• Cognitive stimulation therapy: This type of therapy can help to improve memory, attention, and language skills.
• Physical activity: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing AD.
• Social engagement: Staying socially engaged can help to reduce stress and depression, which can both worsen the symptoms of AD.

Experimental Treatments A number of experimental treatments are being investigated for the treatment of AD. These treatments include:

• Anti-amyloid therapies: These therapies are designed to remove amyloid plaques from the brain. Examples of anti-amyloid therapies include aducanumab (Aduhelm) and gantenerumab.
• Anti-tau therapies: These therapies are designed to prevent the formation of neurofibrillary tangles. Examples of anti-tau therapies include tau vaccines and tau immunotherapy.
• Neuroprotective therapies: These therapies are designed to protect neurons from damage. Examples of neuroprotective therapies include antioxidants, neurotrophic factors, and stem cell therapy.

Conclusion AD is a devastating disease that has a profound impact on individuals and their families. While there is currently no cure for AD, there are a number of treatments that can help to slow the progression of the disease and manage the symptoms. Experimental treatments are also being investigated that may offer hope for a future cure.