Alzheimer Disease: Constans T

Hommet C, Mondon K, Camus V, De Toffol B, Constans T. · Geriatric Internal Medicine and Regional Memory Centre, University Hospital, Tours University, Tours, France. · Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. · Pubmed #18311076 No free full text.

Abstract: Epilepsy is a frequent condition in the elderly; however, it remains a relatively understudied condition in older adults with dementia. The diagnosis of a seizure is particularly difficult and is most often based on questions to the caregiver. Epilepsy in dementia has significant consequences on the prognosis of the underlying dementia: it can result in a worsening of cognitive performance, particularly in language, as well as a reduction in autonomy, a greater risk of injury and a higher mortality rate. In this review, management strategies are recommended for the clinician. The presence of pre-existing Alzheimer's disease does not exempt the clinician from ruling out other symptomatic causes of seizures. Anti-epileptic drugs (AED) should be started only after the diagnosis has been clearly established, when the risk of recurrence is high, and with monotherapy whenever possible. Although few data are available, the more recent AED offer significant advantages over the older medications in this context.

Gillette Guyonnet S, Abellan Van Kan G, Alix E, Andrieu S, Belmin J, Berrut G, Bonnefoy M, Brocker P, Constans T, Ferry M, Ghisolfi-Marque A, Girard L, Gonthier R, Guerin O, Hervy MP, Jouanny P, Laurain MC, Lechowski L, Nourhashemi F, Raynaud-Simon A, Ritz P, Roche J, Rolland Y, Salva T, Vellas B, Anonymous00256. · No affiliation provided · J Nutr Health Aging. · Pubmed #17315079 No free full text.

Abstract: Weight loss, together with psychological and behavioural symptoms and problems of mobility, is one of the principal manifestations of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Weight loss may be associated with protein and energy malnutrition leading to severe complications (alteration of the immune system, muscular atrophy, loss of independence). Various explanations have been proposed such as atrophy of the mesial temporal cortex, biological disturbances, or feeding behaviours; however, none has been proven. Prevention of weight loss in AD is a major issue. It requires regular follow-up and must be an integral part of the care plan. The aim of this article is to review the present state of scientific knowledge on weight loss associated with AD. We will consider four points: the natural history of weight loss, its known etiological factors, its consequences and the various management options.

Hommet C, Mondon K, Perrier D, Rimbaux S, Autret A, Constans T. · Université François-Rabelais, 10, boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours, France. · Rev Med Interne. · Pubmed #18222019 No free full text.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Isolated progressive speech and language difficulties are often the first symptom of primary progressive aphasia. EXEGESIS: We report a 63-year-old woman with progressive language impairment that remained isolated for at least two years, related to a greater atrophy within the left hemisphere. There was no impairment in daily living during two years and six months. Progressively, she developed a frontal dementia. CONCLUSION: Isolated language impairment may be the inaugural symptom of a focal form of a neurodegenerative disease. Progressive language deterioration without impairment in daily life activity or behavioral changes must be differentiated from Alzheimer disease. Brain imaging is important for the diagnosis.

Beaufils E, Hommet C, Perrier D, Autret A, De Toffol B, Constans T, Mondon K. · No affiliation provided · J Am Geriatr Soc. · Pubmed #19054209 No free full text.

This publication has no abstract.

Hommet C, Hureaux R, Barré J, Constans T, Berrut G. · No affiliation provided · Aging Clin Exp Res. · Pubmed #18007124 No free full text.

Abstract: A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with an increased risk of unprovoked seizures. In this observational study, we analyzed first seizures in a sample of elderly subjects with AD hospitalized in an acute geriatric care unit. Only 2.5% of the hospitalized AD patients were admitted for a first seizure. The seizures are not necessarily symptomatic of AD. Symptomatic cause must be ruled out in order to classify the syndrome before introducing antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). In practice, only recurrent unprovoked seizures or symptomatic location- related epilepsy with a high risk of recurrence should be treated with AEDs.