DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Vascular Dementia
Cognitive decline caused by impaired blood flow to the brain, typically from strokes or small vessel disease. Second most common dementia after Alzheimer's. Often coexists with Alzheimer's (mixed dementia). Stepwise progression correlating with vascular events.
50.0M
111
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Neuropsychological testing
- 2Brain MRI (white matter changes, infarcts)
- 3CT scan
- 4History of stroke/TIA
- 5Functional assessment
- 6Blood tests (rule out reversible causes)
- 7Amyloid PET (differentiate AD)
Prognosis
Progressive decline over 5-10 years. Stepwise deterioration with each vascular event. Higher mortality than Alzheimer's due to cardiovascular comorbidities. Prevention of further vascular events essential.
Prevention
- Blood pressure control
- Diabetes management
- Cholesterol management
- Smoking cessation
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Anticoagulation for AF
- Stroke prevention strategies
Research Status
No specific disease-modifying therapy. Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine may help symptoms. Intensive vascular risk factor control may slow progression. Exercise and cognitive training beneficial. Amyloid PET helps differentiate from Alzheimer's.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.