alzheimer Flashcards
what is dementia ?
umbrella term for lost of memory and other thinking abilities severe enough to interrupt with daily life
what is definition of alzheimer ?
progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory , thinking skills and ability to perform simple task
what is pathophysiology of alzheimer?
(hallmarks) - abnormal protein buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles that disrupt neuronal function
(excitotoxicity) - overactivation of NMDA receptors by glutamate leads to cell death
- loss of cholinergic neurons reduces Ach , impairing synaptic communication and memory
- occur at hippocampus
what is early symptoms of alzheimer ?
- forget name and place
- difficult finding words
- inability to remember recent events
- forget appointment
what is later symptoms of alzheimer?
- difficult with language
- problem with planning and decision making
- confusion
- psychosis
- agitation and aggression
what is the risk factor of alzheimer?
non modified- ageing , genetics , caucasian ethnicity
modifiable - diabetes , hypertension, obesity
who can diagnose and what test to diagnose ?
- full assessment by neurologist and psychiatrist
test - mini mental state examination and clock drawing test - common in people above 65 years old
what complication that may occur ?
- memory loss
- confusion
- difficult swallowing
- infections
- dehydration
- falls
what non pharmacological treatments can be used ?
- cognitive behavioural therapy
- art therapy
- social and community support
lifestyle advice for alzheimer
- encouraged physical health
- social and community support
- falls prevention by install grab bars and remove loose wires
2 type of drug classification for alzheimer
- anticholinesterase
- NMDA receptor antagonists
explain the moa of anticholinesterase
inhibit cholinesterase enzyme and increasing Ach availability in synapse to improve alzheimer
explain moa of NMDA receptor antagonists
inhibit NMDA receptor , reducing glutamate , reducing excitotoxicity and neurons death
indication of anticholinesterase
use for mild to moderate alzheimer
indication for NMDA receptor antagonists
used for severe alzheimer or when anticholinesterase is contraindicated
