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Neurotherapeutics
Published in: Neurotherapeutics 4/2023

08-05-2023 | Frontotemporal Dementia | Current Perspectives

New Approaches to the Treatment of Frontotemporal Dementia

Authors: Kyra D. Neylan, Bruce L. Miller

Published in: Neurotherapeutics | Issue 4/2023

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Abstract

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) comprises a diverse group of clinical neurodegenerative syndromes characterized by progressive changes in behavior, personality, executive function, language, and motor function. Approximately 20% of FTD cases have a known genetic cause. The three most common genetic mutations causing FTD are discussed. Frontotemporal lobar degeneration refers to the heterogeneous group of neuropathology underlying FTD clinical syndromes. While there are no current disease-modifying treatments for FTD, management includes off-label pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacological approaches to target symptoms. The utility of several different drug classes is discussed. Medications used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease have no benefit in FTD and can worsen neuropsychiatric symptoms. Non-pharmacological approaches to management include lifestyle modifications, speech-, occupational-, and physical therapy, peer and caregiver support, and safety considerations. Recent developments in the understanding of the genetics, pathophysiology, neuropathology, and neuroimmunology underlying FTD clinical syndromes have expanded possibilities for disease-modifying and symptom-targeted treatments. Different pathogenetic mechanisms are targeted in several active clinical trials, opening up exciting possibilities for breakthrough advances in treatment and management of FTD spectrum disorders.
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Metadata
Title
New Approaches to the Treatment of Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors
Kyra D. Neylan
Bruce L. Miller
Publication date
08-05-2023
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Neurotherapeutics / Issue 4/2023
Print ISSN: 1933-7213
Electronic ISSN: 1878-7479
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-023-01380-6

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