Neurocognitive Disorders

• Pharmacologic Treatment:

  • Cholinesterase inhibitors: (e.g., donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) These drugs slow the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for memory and learning.  

• Non-pharmacologic Treatment:

  • Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST): Involves structured activities designed to enhance cognitive function, such as memory exercises, puzzles, and social interaction.  

2. Parkinson's Disease Dementia (PDD)

• Disease Trajectory:

  • Motor Symptoms First: Parkinson's disease typically begins with motor symptoms like tremor, rigidity, and slow movement.  
  • Cognitive Decline Later: Cognitive decline often develops later in the course of the disease.
  • Cognitive Impairment: Cognitive symptoms can include slowness of thought, impaired attention, memory difficulties, and visuospatial problems.  

• Scale/Measure:

  • Movement Disorders Society - Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS): This comprehensive scale assesses various aspects of Parkinson's disease, including motor symptoms, cognitive function, and behavior.  

• Pharmacologic Treatment:

  • Dopamine Agonists: (e.g., levodopa, carbidopa) These medications help replenish dopamine levels in the brain, which are depleted in Parkinson's disease.  

• Non-pharmacologic Treatment:

  • Speech and Language Therapy: Can help address communication difficulties, such as slowed speech and difficulty finding words.  

Important Notes:

• Disease progression varies greatly among individuals.  
• Treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
• A comprehensive assessment by a neurologist or geriatrician is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.  

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and discussion purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.

1. Alzheimer's Disease (AD)

• Disease Trajectory:

  • Insidious Onset: AD typically has a gradual onset with subtle cognitive decline initially.  
  • Progressive Decline: Cognitive decline progressively worsens over time, impacting memory, language, thinking, and behavior.  
  • Stages:
    • Early: Mild memory lapses, difficulty with multitasking.  
    • Middle: Increasing memory problems, confusion, difficulty with daily tasks.  
    • Late: Severe cognitive impairment, loss of independence, difficulty with communication and self-care.  

• Scale/Measure:

  • Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): A widely used screening tool to assess cognitive function, including orientation, memory, attention, language, and visuospatial skills.