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What is frontotemporal dementia?

Frontotemporal dementia, used to be called Pick’s disease is a type of dementia caused by the gradual destruction of neurons predominantly in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The initial symptoms are personality changes and behavioural abnormalities instead of memory impairment. which is associated with more common types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Individuals with frontotemporal dementia have poor social skills and may appear inconsiderate to others.

Main Symptoms

The main symptoms of frontotemporal dementia include:
  • Personality and behavioural changes
Inappropriately behaviour or impulsiveness, appear selfish or unsympathetic, neglect personal hygiene, and loss of motivation.
  • Language problems
Changes to behaviour and mood such as apathy (lack of motivation), agitation, aggression, depression or anxiety.
  • Problems with mental abilities
Patients can get easily distracted, have problem organizing and planning and making decisions.
  • Memory problems
Memory loss tends to occur later in the stage of the disease, unlike Alzheimer’s disease where memory loss is an early feature.

Facts about frontotemporal dementia

Prevalence of frontotemporal dementia

The precise incidence of frontotemporal dementia has not been established. Available data that included those aged 65 and older indicates that frontotemporal dementia accounts for about 3% of dementia cases and about 10% of dementia cases in studies restricted to those younger than 65.
(Source: Hogan DB, Jette N, Fiest KM, Roberts JI, Pearson D, Smith EE, et al. The prevalence and incidence of frontotemporal dementia: a systematic review. Can J Neurol Sci 2016;43(suppl):S96‐109.)

Who commonly have frontotemporal dementia?

Frontotemporal dementia often affects younger people compared to other types of dementia – those below the age of 65. About 60 percent of people with frontotemporal dementia are aged 45 to 60, although it can also affect younger or older people. It affects both men and women similarly.
(Sources: National Institute on Aging. What are frontotemporal disorders? Available at: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-are-frontotemporal-disorders. Accessed November 17, 2019.)

Will I inherit frontotemporal dementia from my parents?

Frontotemporal dementia quite often runs in families, especially the behavioural form of the condition. Genetic abnormalities have been found in a very small proportion of patients, indicating that only some types of frontotemporal dementia are inherited. Of the four most common dementias, frontotemporal dementia is the one in which genes have the largest impact.

What are the currently available treatments for frontotemporal dementia?

Unfortunately, there are no drugs available at present that can cure frontotemporal dementia or stop its progression. However, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms of agitation, irritability and/or depression. These treatments are used to help improve their quality of life. Do not hesitate to see a doctor if you think you or your loved ones have symptoms of frontotemporal dementia.
To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors
– Tia Walker –

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