What is frontotemporal dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), sometimes referred to as frontal lobe dementia or Pick's disease, is a spectrum of brain disorders characterized by the gradual deterioration of nerve cells primarily in the frontal and temporal lobes. This deterioration disrupts communication between these lobes and other brain regions, leading to a decline in cognitive and behavioral functions.
There are two types of frontotemporal dementia:
- Frontal variant FTD primarily affects behavior and personality due to frontal lobe damage.
- Primary progressive aphasia disrupts language abilities due to temporal lobe impairment.
Frontotemporal dementia typically emerges in adults between 40 and 65, although the age can vary. Currently, there is no cure for FTD, but there are treatments available to help manage symptoms.
Frontotemporal dementia symptoms
The symptoms of frontotemporal dementia vary from person to person. Common symptoms include changes in behavior and personality, such as social inappropriateness, impulsivity, and loss of empathy. Patients with FTD may demonstrate language difficulties, such as trouble finding the right words or understanding language. This often leads to hesitant speech or curt language. In some cases, FTD can also produce movement-related symptoms resembling Parkinson's disease or ALS, including tremors, muscle weakness, and difficulty swallowing.
As the disease advances, these symptoms tend to worsen, often affecting multiple aspects of a patient's life, from daily activities to interpersonal relationships. Our specialists understand the complexities of frontotemporal dementia and are committed to providing expertise, guidance, and compassionate care at every stage of this challenging disease.
What causes frontotemporal dementia?
FTD is a complex brain condition that researchers are still trying to fully understand. While there is no one cause of FTD, changes in certain genes have been found to lead to FTD. These genes give instructions for making proteins in the brain, but if the genes are changed in any way, they can ultimately damage nerve cells. However, not everyone with frontotemporal dementia has these gene changes, so there are likely other unknown factors at play.
Having family members with FTD can increase your chances of having a genetic form of the disease, but doctors aren't exactly sure why. Our researchers at Penn Medicine are working hard to figure out all the pieces of the puzzle to better understand and treat FTD.
Diagnosing FTD
Diagnosing frontotemporal dementia can be challenging because its symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, and there is no single test for it. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may begin by ruling out other causes for the symptoms using blood tests, sleep studies, and physical exams. Neurological and neuropsychological tests are then used to evaluate memory, language, and cognitive functions. Genetic testing may be considered if you have a family history of dementia. Various brain imaging techniques can visualize changes in your brain, though an accurate FTD diagnosis will often rely strongly on an expert evaluation by doctors familiar with the disorder and your symptoms, medical history, and family history.
Frontotemporal dementia treatments
FTD currently lacks a cure, but there are ways to manage its symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Behavioral symptoms, such as anxiety and compulsive behaviors, may be addressed with medications like antidepressants and antipsychotics. Various types of therapy can help with language, behavioral, or movement symptoms. Support groups and community resources can also help individuals living with frontotemporal dementia and their caregivers, providing education, guidance, and emotional support.
Advancing frontotemporal dementia research
While there are no specific treatments for FTD, research is ongoing to develop new therapies and better understand the disease’s underlying mechanisms. Penn Medicine’s Frontotemporal Degeneration Center is at the forefront of research and treatment for early onset neurodegenerative conditions. Our research efforts include detailed studies of biomarkers, genetics, and advanced neuroimaging techniques. By participating in research studies at Penn, you can contribute directly to the advancement of scientific knowledge and help us provide you with the most innovative and effective treatments available.