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Vascular factors in dementia: an overview
1Department of Neurology, University of California at Davis, 4860 Y St. Suite 3700, Sacramento CA 95817, USA. cdecarli@ucdavis.edu
Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|November 13, 2004
Summary
Cerebrovascular disease risk factors may worsen Alzheimer's disease progression, suggesting these conditions interact to cause dementia in the elderly. Research highlights shared genetic risks and potential synergistic effects.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Pathology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease and cerebrovascular disease are prevalent in the elderly.
- Traditionally, these conditions are viewed and treated in isolation.
- Emerging evidence suggests a complex interplay between the two.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on the relationship between Alzheimer's disease and cerebrovascular disease.
- To explore how cerebrovascular risk factors may influence Alzheimer's pathology.
- To examine the hypothesis that these diseases interact to cause dementia.
Main Methods:
- Review of accumulating scientific evidence.
- Analysis of studies on shared genetic risks.
- Examination of data on asymptomatic brain injury and disease acceleration.
Main Results:
- Cerebrovascular risk factors can lead to silent brain injuries.
- Shared genetic predispositions exist between Alzheimer's and cerebrovascular diseases.
- These conditions may accelerate the Alzheimer's disease process.
Conclusions:
- Alzheimer's disease and cerebrovascular disease may not be independent entities.
- The interaction between these diseases could be additive or synergistic.
- This interaction is a significant factor in the development of clinical dementia.