Question

Alzheimer disease is the most common form of dementia. It affects 10% of the population over 65 and 50% of the population over 85. Nerve cells in the areas of the brain associated with memory and cognition are replaced by abnormal clumps and tangles of a protein. Which of the following statements best describes a patient with this condition?

a. Neurons are not affected.
b. The disease is chronic, progressive, and irreversible.
c. The disorder is acute and related to a CVA
d. The risk of developing the disease decreases with increasing age.
e. The disease improves learning and the retention of information.

Answer 1

Alzheimer's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative condition that causes progressive cognitive decline due to the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, which leads to the death of neurons. It is the predominant cause of dementia in the elderly and does not improve learning or retention of information. Diagnosis is established based on symptoms and diagnostic tests, with confirmation after death.

Step-by-step explanation:

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that is the most common cause of dementia, particularly affecting the elderly. This disease entails a gradual decline in cognitive function, which includes deterioration in memory, reasoning, and behavior. As the condition advances, the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain lead to neuronal death, especially impacting areas involved in memory such as the hippocampus. These pathological features contribute to the shrinking of the brain's volume over time. It is essential to note that Alzheimer's does not improve learning or the retention of information; instead, it progressively impairs these abilities.

The illness manifests in predominantly two forms: an early-onset form, which is rare and gene-related, and the more common late-onset form, which also has genetic links. Understanding that this disease is chronic and its symptoms worsen over time is crucial. Contrary to the notion that the disorder is acute and related to a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), Alzheimer's disease develops over many years and is not a result of such an event. Careful observation of symptoms along with diagnostics can lead to a probable diagnosis, although definitive diagnosis is often only possible post-mortem after examining the brain tissue.