1. The exact cause of Alzheimer Disease (AD) is unknown
1.1. In early onset AD autosomal dominant forms are caused by mutations in genes of the amyloid precursor protein, presenilin I, and presinilin II.
1.1.1. General risk factors include age, family history, lifestyle, as well as other factors.
1.1.2. Family history is heightened if a parent has been diagnosed with AD.
1.1.3. Many indivoiduals with down syndrome develop AD.
1.1.4. The female gender is at more of increased risk for developing AD over men
1.1.5. Past head injury
1.1.6. Alcohol abuse
1.2. In late onset the majot genetic risk is related to apolopoprotein E gene-allele 4 on chromosome 19 which intereferes with the amyloid beta clearance from the brain and is also processed into neurotoxic fragments found in the plaques and tangles within the brain.
1.2.1. Signs and symptoms of AD vary based on the stages and patient condition
1.2.1.1. As the brain begins to detiorate other parts of the body begin to show signs of progressive AD
1.2.1.1.1. Early detection of AD is key in managing symtpoms and providing quality of life to the patient as well as the family.
1.2.1.1.2. History and physical from the patient and primary caregivers to discuss the decline in patients day to day activities.
1.2.1.1.3. Labs should be collected such as an electrolyte panel. Cerebrospinal fluid can be collected to detect elevated levels of amyloid and tau proteins.
1.2.1.1.4. Scans such as MRI or CT scan should be completed to assess a clear picture of the brain.
1.2.1.1.5. Referrals should be sent to a neurologist to look further into the condition and rule out any other neurological disorders. A referral to a therapist would also be beneficial because AD can be a very difficult disease to process and cope with and would be beneficial for any direct caregivers as well.
1.2.1.2. The muscles become rigid so shuffling of the feet occurs making hard to walk and putting patients at an increased risk for falls.
1.2.1.3. Immobitily can cause problems with diet and decreased motility in bowels leading to constipation.
1.2.1.4. Due to the build up of amyloid within the brain causing build up within the vessels blood flow is restricted to the brain putting patinets at risk for having a stroke.
1.2.2. Difficultly finding the correct words to express self
1.2.3. Losing or misplacing objects
1.2.4. Taking longer to complete usual tasks.
1.2.5. Increased confusion on days of the week or seasons
1.2.6. Loss of recognition of family members or known persons
1.2.7. Need for increased assistance in self care
1.2.8. Urinary and bowel incontinence