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An uncommon type of dementia -

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is an uncommon type of dementia that causes problems with personality, behavior, and language. It tends to develop slowly, and gets gradually worse over several years.

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Causes of frontotemporal dementia -

FTD is caused by clumps of abnormal protein forming inside brain cells. These are believed to damage the cells and stop them from working properly.

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Why it happens -

In addition, certain substances accumulate in the brain. But it's still not fully understood why this happens.

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A genetic link -

However, there are genetic mutations that have been linked to FTD. Around one in eight people who get FTD will have relatives who were also affected by the condition.

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More research is needed -

Researchers have confirmed shared genetics and molecular pathways between FTD and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, more research needs to be done to understand the connection and potential treatments.

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Symptoms of frontotemporal dementia -

Signs and symptoms of frontotemporal dementia can be different for each person. Clusters of symptom types tend to occur together, and people may have more than one cluster of symptom types.

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Personality and behavior changes -

The most common signs of FTD involve extreme changes in behavior and personality. These include acting inappropriately, loss of empathy, neglecting personal hygiene, overeating, and loss of motivation.

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Language problems -

Some subtypes of FTD lead to language problems or impairment, or loss of speech. This includes speaking slowly and struggling to say the right sounds when saying a word.

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Problems with mental abilities -

People with FTD can get easily distracted, and struggle with planning and organization.

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Memory problems -

Memory problems tend to only occur later on, unlike more common forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease.

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Motor disorders -

There may also be physical problems, such as slow or stiff movements, muscle weakness, or difficulty swallowing. During later stages of FTD, one may even lose bladder or bowel control.

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Help might be needed -

These problems can make daily activities difficult, and the person may eventually be unable to look after themselves.

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Getting medical advice -

See a medical professional if you think you have early symptoms of dementia. If you're worried about someone else, encourage them to make an appointment.

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A medical professional will do simple checks -

The medical professional will do some simple checks to try to find the cause of your symptoms. If needed, they might refer you to a memory clinic or another specialist for further tests.

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Tests for frontotemporal dementia -

There isn't a single test for frontotemporal dementia. However, there are some ways to make a diagnosis.

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An assessment of symptoms -

Normally, it's helpful to have somebody who knows the person well enough to give an account of their symptoms. Especially if someone with FTD isn't aware of their own behavioral changes.

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An assessment of mental abilities -

This will usually involve a number of tasks and questions.

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Blood tests -

Blood tests can help rule out conditions with similar symptoms.

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Brain scans -

Brain scans such as an MRI scan, a CT scan, or a PET scan can detect signs of dementia and help identify which parts of the brain are most affected. They can also help rule out other issues with the brain.

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Lumbar puncture -

A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is a medical procedure in which a needle is inserted into the spinal canal. Its purpose is to extract fluid that surrounds and supports the brain and spine, which may be useful to rule out Alzheimer's disease.

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Treatments for frontotemporal dementia -

There's currently no cure for FTD or any treatment that will slow it down. However, there are ways to help control some of the symptoms.

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Therapies -

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can help for problems with movement, everyday tasks, and communication.

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Medication -

There is medication available to control some of the behavioral problems associated with FTD.

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Activities for dementia -

Activities for dementia, such as memory cafés, are great for people with memory problems and their carers to get support and advice.

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Support groups -

Support groups are an ideal place to get tips on managing symptoms from dementia experts and people living with FTD and their families.

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Outlook for frontotemporal dementia -

The progression of FTD varies from person to person and is very difficult to predict. People with the condition can get socially isolated as the illness progresses. Home-based help will usually be needed at some point, and some people will eventually need to go to a nursing home.

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Average survival time -

The average survival time after symptoms start is around eight to 10 years. But this varies, and some people live much longer than this.

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For family members -

If your loved one has been diagnosed with FTD, remember that you are not alone. There are many support groups and resources that can provide advice for the family as well.

Sources: (Associated Press) (NHS) (Mayo Clinic)

See also: These conditions affect men and women differently

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