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Pick's disease
Introduction
Treatment
Prognosis
Research
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Pick's
Disease
Introduction
- What is
Pick's disease?
Pick's disease is a form of dementia characterized by a
slowly progressive deterioration of social skills and changes in personality
leading to impairment of intellect, memory, and language. Although the disease
varies greatly in the way it affects individuals, there is a common core of
symptoms among patients, which may be present at different stages of the
disease. These symptoms include loss of memory, lack of spontaneity, difficulty
in thinking or concentrating, and disturbances of speech. Other symptoms include
gradual emotional dullness, loss of moral judgment, and progressive dementia.
Although the disease usually affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60,
the age of onset may range from 20 to 80. The cause of the disease is unknown.
Is
there any treatment?
There is no cure or specific treatment for Pick's
disease. Its progression cannot be slowed. However, some of the symptoms of the
disease may be treated effectively.
What
is the prognosis?
The course of Pick's disease is an inevitable
progressive deterioration. The length of progression varies, ranging from less
than 2 years in some to more than 10 years in others. Death is usually caused by
infection.
What research
is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports research to learn more
about the cause, prevention, and treatment of dementing disorders such as Pick's
disease. NINDS investigators are currently conducting a pathogenetic study of
Pick's disease patients. The study includes cerebral imaging with positron
emission tomography, and experimental therapeutic interventions. The National
Institute on Aging also conducts research relevant to Pick's disease.
This
information is available courtesy of the National Institute of Neurological
Disorders and Stroke. It is in the public domain and can be downloaded, reproduced,
or copied without permission. For more information go to
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/health_and_medical/disorder_index.htm
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