Dementia with Lewy Bodies, first described in 1961, has been increasingly recognized over the past 5-10 years. Currently it is the 2nd most common form of dementia. Abnormal brain cells called “lewy bodies” are distributed in varying degrees throughout all areas of the brain. It is a dementia very similar to AD but may progress more rapidly. The main features of Lewy Body are (1) the development of features similar to Parkinson’s disease (2) fluctuation in the severity of condition on a day-to-day basis and (3) development of visual hallucinations and delusions.
Diagnosis
By Lewy Body Dementia Association
An experienced clinician within the medical community should perform a diagnostic evaluation. If one is not available, the neurology department of the nearest medical university should be able to recommend appropriate resources or may even provide an experienced diagnostic team skilled in Lewy body dementia.
A thorough dementia diagnostic evaluation includes physical and neurological examinations, patient and family interviews (including a detailed lifestyle and medical history), and neuro-psychological and mental status tests. The patient's functional ability, attention, language, visuospatial skills, memory and executive functioning are assessed. In addition, brain imaging (CT or MRI scans), blood tests and other laboratory studies may be performed. The evaluation will provide a clinical diagnosis. Currently, a conclusive diagnosis of LBD can be obtained only from a postmortem autopsy for which arrangements should be made in advance. Some research studies may offer brain autopsies as part of their protocols. Participating in research studies is a good way to benefit others with Lewy body dementia.
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