Frontotemporal Dementia (Pick's Disease)

What is frontotemporal dementia (Pick's disease)?

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) describes a clinical syndrome associated with shrinking of the frontal and temporal anterior lobes of the brain. Originally known as Pick's disease, the name and classification of frontotemporal dementia has been a topic of discussion for over a century. The current designation of the syndrome groups together Pick's disease, primary progressive aphasia, and semantic dementia as FTD. Some doctors propose adding corticobasal degeneration and progressive supranuclear palsy to frontotemporal dementia and calling the group Pick Complex. These designations will continue to be debated.

What are the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia?

As it is defined today, the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia fall into two clinical patterns that involve either (1) changes in behavior, or (2) problems with language.
The first type features behavior that can be either impulsive (disinhibited) or bored and listless (apathetic) and includes:

• inappropriate social behavior;
  
• lack of social tact;
  
• lack of empathy;
  
• distractibility;
  
• loss of insight into the behaviors of oneself and others;
  
• an increased interest in sex;
  
• changes in food preferences;
  
• agitation or, conversely, blunted emotions;
  
• neglect of personal hygiene;
  
• repetitive or compulsive behavior; and
  
• decreased energy and motivation.

The second type primarily features symptoms of language disturbance, including difficulty making or understanding speech, often in conjunction with the behavioral type's symptoms. Spatial skills and memory remain intact.

Is frontotemporal dementia inherited?

There is a strong genetic component to the disease; frontotemporal dementia often runs in families.

Is there any treatment for frontotemporal dementia?

No treatment has been shown to slow the progression of frontotemporal dementia. Behavior modification may help control unacceptable or dangerous behaviors. Aggressive, agitated, or dangerous behaviors could require medication. Anti-depressants have been shown to improve some symptoms.

What is the prognosis (the outlook) for frontotemporal dementia?

The outcome for people with frontotemporal dementia is poor. The disease progresses steadily and often rapidly, ranging from less than 2 years in some individuals to more than 10 years in others. Eventually some individuals with frontotemporal dementia will need 24-hour care and monitoring at home or in an institutionalized care setting.

What research is being done on frontotemporal dementia?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and other institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conduct research related to FTD in laboratories at the NIH, and also support additional research through grants to major medical institutions across the country.
Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.

Where can I find more information about frontotemporal dementia?

Association for Frontotemporal Dementias (AFTD)
100 North 17th Street Suite 600
Philadelphia, PA 19103
info@FTD-Picks.org
http://www.FTD-Picks.org
Tel: 267-514-7221 866-507-7222

SOURCES: 
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Medicinenet.com.