Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, and it is characterized by abnormal protein deposition in the brain. It is the most prevalent type of dementia. It has two primary causes. It may be caused by the extracellular accumulation of abnormal amounts of amyloid beta (Aβ) proteins which lead to accumulation of amyloid plaques. This disease may also occur due to intracellular accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles. In both these cases, the plaques and tangles formed by these proteins disrupt brain nerve cell transmission and affect the neuronal functioning and connectivity which leads to loss of brain function. Alzheimer's disease affects memory and thinking abilities of a person. Significant behavioral and psychological symptoms such as sleep changes are also observed. The current treatments available for this disease focus on improving symptoms of memory loss and problems with thinking and reasoning. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements related to the causes, diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects and recent researches on this disease. This book will serve as a valuable source of reference for students, researchers and medical practitioners.