Gauthier S, Panisset M, Nalbantoglu J, Poirier J
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, Que.
CMAJ. 1997 Oct 15;157(8):1047-52.
Alzheimer's disease is a common neurological condition, appearing as early as age 40 but increasing dramatically in incidence over age 85. Different genetic factors are at play, modified by events over a lifetime. Clinical diagnosis is possible through careful history taking with a reliable informant and a minimum number of laboratory tests. A relatively predictable natural history can be observed, with progression through stages of cognitive loss, functional impairment and behavioural disinhibition or apathy. New medications such as donepezil offer hope for improving or stabilizing symptoms. Such treatment can be administered by primary care physicians with experience in the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. Disease stabilization, or even prevention, may be possible in the future.
阿尔茨海默病是一种常见的神经系统疾病，早在40岁就可能出现，但在85岁以上人群中的发病率会急剧上升。不同的遗传因素在起作用，并受一生经历的影响而改变。通过与可靠的信息提供者仔细询问病史以及进行最少数量的实验室检查，可以做出临床诊断。可以观察到相对可预测的自然病程，其经历认知丧失、功能障碍以及行为失控或淡漠等阶段。多奈哌齐等新药为改善或稳定症状带来了希望。这种治疗可由具有阿尔茨海默病诊断和管理经验的初级保健医生进行。未来疾病稳定甚至预防或许是可能的。
