Semantic dementia

Semantic dementia
Synonyms	Semantic variant primary progressive aphasia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Anomia, impaired comprehension of word meaning, loss of semantic memory
Complications	N/A
Onset	Typically between ages 50 and 65
Duration	Progressive
Types	Frontotemporal lobar degeneration
Causes	Neurodegeneration
Risks	Genetic predisposition, age
Diagnosis	Neuropsychological testing, MRI, PET scan
Differential diagnosis	Alzheimer's disease, Primary progressive aphasia, Logopenic variant PPA
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Speech therapy, supportive care
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Progressive decline over time
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Semantic dementia (SD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of semantic memory in both the verbal and non-verbal domains. It is one of the three clinical syndromes associated with Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), along with Progressive nonfluent aphasia (PNFA) and Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD).

Symptoms

The most prominent symptom of semantic dementia is the loss of semantic memory. This includes difficulty understanding words, recognizing familiar people or objects, and understanding the meaning of information. Other symptoms may include personality changes, behavioral changes, and difficulty with social interactions.

Causes

Semantic dementia is caused by degeneration in the anterior temporal lobes of the brain. The exact cause of this degeneration is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of semantic dementia is based on clinical assessment, including a detailed history, neurological examination, and cognitive testing. Neuroimaging, such as MRI, may also be used to identify atrophy in the anterior temporal lobes.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for semantic dementia. Treatment is focused on managing symptoms and providing support to the individual and their family. This may include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social support.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with semantic dementia is poor, with most individuals experiencing a progressive decline in function over time. The rate of progression varies between individuals.

See also

• Frontotemporal dementia
• Progressive nonfluent aphasia
• Frontotemporal lobar degeneration

References

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