Chapter 45 Patho

SPECT report

A diagnostic imaging technique used to observe blood flow and activity in the brain.

Hyperperfusion

Increased blood flow to a specific area of the brain, often associated with certain types of dementia.

Cerebral atrophy

The loss of neurons and the connections between them, often seen in various types of dementia.

Pick’s disease

A type of frontotemporal dementia characterized by changes in personality and behavior.

Vascular dementia

A type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes.

Alzheimer’s disease

A progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline.

Delusional behavior

A false belief that is strongly held despite evidence to the contrary, often seen in dementia.

Impaired renal function

A decrease in the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood, which can affect medication management.

Chronic renal failure

A long-term condition where the kidneys do not function effectively, often related to diabetes or hypertension.

Multicausality

The concept that multiple factors contribute to a condition or outcome, including both internal and external influences.

Febrile response

The body's ability to generate a fever in response to infection or illness, which can diminish with age.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death, which can be influenced by various aging theories.

Tau protein

A protein that, when abnormally accumulated, is associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Gastrointestinal changes

Age-related alterations in the digestive system that can lead to issues like constipation.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

A lack of this vitamin can lead to neurological issues, including gait instability and paresthesias.

Cardiovascular aging

Physiological changes in the heart and blood vessels that increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases in older adults.

Kyphosis

A condition characterized by an exaggerated curvature of the spine, which can affect respiratory function.

Thermoregulation

The body's ability to maintain a stable internal temperature, which can be impaired in older adults.

Carbidopa/levodopa

A medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease, which can also be associated with dementia with Lewy bodies.

Flattened villi

Changes in the intestinal lining that can affect nutrient absorption in older adults.

Antisocial behavior

A lack of social skills and withdrawal from social interactions, often seen in dementia patients.

Cognitive decline

The deterioration of cognitive functions, which can be managed with specific classes of medications.

Connective tissue infiltration

The accumulation of connective tissue in heart tissues, which can affect heart function in older adults.

Renal system changes

Age-related alterations in kidney function that can affect fluid and waste management.

Neurotransmitter changes

Alterations in brain chemicals that can impact mood, cognition, and overall brain function with aging.

Respiratory system changes

Age-related factors that increase the risk of respiratory infections like pneumonia in older adults.

Presbycusis

Age-related hearing loss caused by various changes in the auditory system.

Symptoms of dementia with Lewy bodies

Common manifestations include delusions, visual hallucinations, and motor symptoms like tremors.