When Alzheimer's is LATE: Why Does it Matter?

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Accurate dementia diagnosis is vital for effective treatment.
• Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE) is a common condition.
• LATE symptoms can mimic Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the clinical significance of recognizing LATE.
• To differentiate LATE from Alzheimer's disease based on underlying pathology.
• To provide guidance on LATE diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on LATE and AD.
• Analysis of clinical signs, symptoms, and diagnostic markers.
• Discussion of neuropathological differences (TDP-43 vs. Aβ amyloid/tau).

Main Results:

• LATE affects approximately 25% of older adults.
• LATE presents with an amnestic syndrome, often confused with AD.
• Distinct protein aggregates characterize LATE (TDP-43) and AD (Aβ amyloid/tau).

Conclusions:

• Clinical recognition of LATE is essential for accurate dementia diagnosis.
• Understanding LATE's distinct pathology is key, even when co-occurring with AD.
• This review offers insights for physicians, patients, and families regarding LATE.