Inherited Alzheimer's Damage Greater Decades Before Symptoms Appear

A study investigating an inherited form of Alzheimer's disease shows the progression of the disease may slow once symptoms appear and do significant damage. Professor Colin Masters, from the Florey Institutie of Neuroscience and Mental Health and University of Melbourne, found rapid neuronal damage beginning 10-20 years before symptoms appear. Professor Master stated, "There is actually a slowing of the neurodegeneration." Families with autosomal dominant Alzheimer's are vital because years before symptoms arise, they can be diagnosed. Information gathered will also help treatment for those with age-related Alzheimer's disease. 1% of Alzheimer's patients have the genetic type of the disease. The next step of the study is the clinical trail. They will monitor the subjects with MRIs, PETs, blood tests, and cerebrospinal fluid.
The fact that only 1% of all Alzheimer's patients are the genetic form is shocking. That is good news, though, because it means a person does not pass it on to their progeny. Improving the treatment is very important for both the genetic and non-genetic types of the disease.