Abstract Frototemporal Dementia (FTD), also known as Frototemporal Degeneration is a series of progressive malfunction of the front and/ or temporal lobes of the brain. It can be bilaterally or unilaterally. It is a type of dementia (deterioration of cognitive function) that affects the function of the frontal and temporal lobes. The disorder has distinct qualities like Alzheimer’s disease. In the US it is described as “progressive aphasia”, and in the UK it is know under the term “frontotemporal dementia”. The disorder has limited medications and therapy plays a big role in managing the symptoms of total deterioration of the health of people who are suffering from FTD. This paper discusses the pathology, epidemiology, etiology, signs and …show more content…
Blood test do not reveal any signs of the disease. Brain imaging studies though help locate lesions. CT scans and MRI are only reliable for cerebral atrophy. In some patients there is a visible atrophy on either one or both of the frontal or temporal lobe. Cases differ from different patients. Using the MRI has a huge correlation in detecting brain atrophy. Patients who have bvFTD may have atrophy on either one or both of the frontal lobe. Patients who are experiencing aphasia (progressive and non-fluent) have a tendency to have a perisvlyian (left hemisphere atrophy). PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans are also relevant in detecting …show more content…
Patients who are diagnosed with FTD may live a short or long life depending on the care that is being provided by his or her caregivers. Medications are available to assist with progression and help with the quality of life. FTD is accompanied by personality changes and most of the time it increases the level of anxiety of a patient. With them having the diseases needs more understanding and care from the caregivers and from the people around the patient. It is lifetime battle to make sure that the person will have comfortable life as long as he or she lives. The disease is hereditary, chances of transferring it to at least one member of the family is possible. Understanding the background of FTD can help and educate the audience on what is happening in the brain of the patient. Treatments are still not available expect for the management of mood and behavioral symptoms. Therefore, a better understanding of FTD will lead to further education on how can caregivers and members of the healthcare team provide a service and assistance for an FTD