Vascular Dementia

Biography

Biography: Hans Von Holst

Abstract

Vascular dementia is the second most common dementia type after Alzheimer’s disease. Although the epidemiology of vascular dementia is somewhat difficult to estimate exactly, it is substantial nationwide as stroke is one of the major causes. It may also be defined as cerebrovascular dementia as the etiology results in reduced blood flow to parts of the brain tissue. A majority of the cases are elderly people over 70 years. The causes to vascular dementia include high blood pressure, lipids, obesity and diabetes as well as external traumatic brain injury. The clinical picture presents different symptoms depending on injury location and includes, among others, memory problems, reduced thinking and impaired linguistic abilities, slow motoric motion, depression, aggressiveness and impaired judgment. Also, temporary confusion caused by different stress situation is not uncommon. With the introduction of advanced imaging technology such as computerized tomography, magnetic resonance tomography and positron emission tomography, the anatomical location of the defect tissue area can better be identified. The treatment of vascular dementia varies depending on its cause as well as on anatomical location. With the introduction of more advanced laboratory and imaging technology, it is possible to better understand the consequences to vascular dementia on a molecular level including the protein metabolism. With better knowledge from medical and technical development, the primary prevention of vascular dementia will be highlighted such as reducing metabolic disorders but also by the primary prevention in avoiding traumatic brain injuries following fall, traffic accidents and due to different leisure activities.