The heterogeneity of cognitive impairment in ALS

Description:

What this research means to you: The aim of this study is to clarify the relationship between ALS (the most common type of MND), Frontotemporal dementia and the more subtle cognitive problems experienced by some patients.  The results of this project should help to provide guidance for those involved in caring for people with MND.

The researcher explains in more detail: A small proportion of people with MND (around 3%) also have a type of dementia known as Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD. This is different from Alzheimer's Disease, the most common type of dementia. A proportion of people with classical ALS who do not suffer from dementia may also show subtle cognitive changes but the relationship of these symptoms to FTD remains unclear. Recent laboratory studies have suggested that there is significant overlap between ALS and FTD in terms of the mechanisms of nerve cell degeneration.
This PhD project will undertake an in depth assessment of language and behaviour to determine whether there is any evidence of subclinical levels of certain forms of FTD in people with ALS. Patients will be followed-up to explore the impact of cognitive and behavioural symptoms on the prognosis.
The results of this study will help to clarify the link between ALS and FTD and determine whether the disorders do in fact lie on a clinical continuum. The findings will also determine whether such changes affect the quality of life of the person with ALS and the carer. They should ultimately aid clinical management, providing guidance for carers and health professionals.  

Dr Abrahams' research group web page