Final answer:
Alzheimer disease is confirmed as a leading cause of senile dementia, characterized by amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuron loss in the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that Alzheimer disease has been identified as a leading cause of senile dementia. Formally named after Alois Alzheimer, this neurodegenerative condition is characterized by symptoms that include severe memory loss, cognitive decline, and personality changes. Pathologically, it is marked by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, along with a reduction in brain volume, particularly severe in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory formation. As of 2012, millions of Americans were affected by Alzheimer's disease, making it the most prevalent cause of dementia in the elderly.
Research continues to uncover the genetics and molecular mechanisms underlying the disease, such as the involvement of the tau protein in the development of neurofibrillary tangles and the discovery of new risk genes. Although Alzheimer's can manifest early due to certain genetic mutations, the more common late-onset form has also been linked to genetic factors, with variants like apolipoprotein E (APOE) E4 allele increasing susceptibility to the condition.
As the population ages, especially with the baby-boomer generation reaching seniority, the projections for Alzheimer's patient numbers in the United States are staggering, potentially reaching up to 13 million by 2050. Understanding and addressing Alzheimer's disease remains a significant public health challenge.