Cluster analysis of cognitive performance in elderly and demented subjects

Systemic and brain metabolic dysfunction as a new paradigm for approaching Alzheimer's dementia

Since its definition Alzheimer's disease has been at the centre of consideration for neurologists, psychiatrists, and pathologists. With John P. Blass it has been disclosed a different approach Alzheimer's disease neurodegeneration understanding not only by the means of neurochemistry but also biochemistry opening new scenarios in the direction of a metabolic system degeneration. Nowadays, the understanding of the role of cholesterol, insulin, and adipokines among the others in Alzheimer's disease etiopathogenesis is clarifying approaches valuable not only in preventing the disease but also for its therapy.

Cognitive and brain imaging measures of Alzheimer's disease

Diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) during life relies upon clinical and neurobehavioral symptoms but is presumptive without microscopic verification of neuropathology. Studies in this review observed considerable heterogeneity in AD symptoms and did not agree on how to detect the earliest symptoms. Problems exist in diagnosis. Differences in symptoms and diagnosis result from how AD is defined neurobehaviorally and on the model used for description. The studies reviewed have been considered under three basic models: A severity (staging) model; a heterogeneity (subtyping) model; and an information processing model. Differences in model intent have resulted in differences in disease description. Brain imaging measures have not invalidated models but add the neural substrate needed to examine correlation of measures within each model.

An Italian series of patients with organic dementia

A series of 224 patients with organic mental deterioration, including 129 patients with presumptive Alzheimer dementia, is described chiefly from the neuropsychological standpoint. Several methodological problems arising from research on dementia are discussed.