Alzheimer disease

Alzheimer disease (AD) is biologically defined by the presence of beta-amyloid-containing plaques and tau-containing neurofibrillary tangles. AD is a genetic and sporadic neurodegenerative disease that causes an amnestic cognitive impairment in its prototypical presentation and non-amnestic cognitive impairment in its less common variants. AD is a common cause of cognitive impairment acquired in midlife and late-life but its clinical impact is modified by other neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular conditions. This Primer conceives of AD biology as the brain disorder that results from a complex interplay of loss of synaptic homeostasis and dysfunction in the highly interrelated endosomal/lysosomal clearance pathways in which the precursors, aggregated species and post-translationally modified products of A beta and tau play important roles. Therapeutic endeavours are still struggling to find targets within this framework that substantially change the clinical course in persons with AD. Alzheimer disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes cognitive impairment. This Primer by Knopman et al. reviews the epidemiology of cognitive manifestations and risk factors, summarizes the pathophysiology from a synaptic disorder perspective, and reviews advances in the diagnosis, management and quality of life of persons living with Alzheimer disease.

Automated summary

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive impairments. The pathophysiology involves a complex interplay of loss of synaptic homeostasis and dysfunction in endosomal/lysosomal clearance pathways. Therapeutic options are still being sought to substantially alter the clinical course of individuals with Alzheimer's disease.