It is a neurological in which the brain cells become inactive and results in dementia and impaired cognitive functions, loss of memory. It results in Confusion, lethargy, delirium, dementia, encephalopathy, and organic brain syndrome are all terms that have been used to refer to conditions hallmarked by mental status changes.
It accounts for the 60-70 % of the dementia cases and it is uncommon under the age of 45 yrs.
It is caused by the abnormal build up of proteins called prions(misfolded proteins) in the brain and also the conformational change of prions in the brains. The buildup of protein called amyloid protein and tau protein leads to the death of the brain cells. These proteins build up in the surface of the brain forming larger masses of cells called plaques.Twisted protein of another protein which is termed as tau results in tangled structure of protein.These plaque and tangled blocks the synaptic communication between the nerve cells and results is loss of brain function and prevents the brain from carrying out its action.This leads to the programmed cell death in the indivduals with deposition of amyloid fibrils in their brain.The slow and ongoing death of the cells starting in one area of the brain eventually sprading to other areas usually starts in the area which controls the memory and leading to the cause of the altered mental status.
Symptoms:
Inability to recall the past events
Difficulty to recognize the family members
Difficult in finding the words and reading
Spatial or vision issues
Impaired reasoning /judgement skills
Movement difficulties and problems linked to smell perception is also seen in some cases
Involuntary muscle movements which are known as Myoclonus.
Psychosis
Obessessive compulsive disorder
Rambling speech
Cannot be aroused from sleep
It is usually diagnosed with the history of the patient and behavioural changes and impaired cognitive functions.
Complete blood test
Blood urea and creatinine levels should be checked.
Liver test
Partial thromboplastin and Prothrombin time should be checked to rule out the dysfunction of the clotting factors.
Electroencephalogram(EEG): the doctors might suggest EEG to detect any abnormalities in the brain.
Imaging tests: CT scan, MRI scan SPECTs and PET scans help doctors locate the tumor and determine if it is cancerous or benign.
Neurological exam: During a neurological exam, your doctor will look for changes in your balance, coordination, mental status, hearing, vision and reflexes. These changes can point to the part of your brain that may be affected by a tumor.
Spinal tap:A doctor uses a small needle to remove fluid from around the spine. A laboratory examines this fluid to look for cancer cells. It is also known as lumbar puncture.
Single photon emission computed tomography
Positron emission tomography : It is used in early diagnosis of altered mental status.
Biomarker tests. A biomarker is a biological factor that can be measured to indicate the presence or absence of disease or the risk of developing a disease.
Neuropsychological test mainly to observe cognitive functions is done with MINI MENTAL STATE EXAMINATION
Prognosis is good when the symptoms are detected earlier and the treatment is done at an earlier stages.
Allow the patient to come out of their comfort zone and support them.
Promote good sleep habits.
Provide reassurance that is help the patient to understand what is happening around their environment
Follow good lifestyle habits and encourage taking healthy diet.
Encourage the movement for the patient
Have plenty of lightining and ventilation during day times.
Drink plenty of water and other fluids
If any symptoms such as the cough,fever pain or shortness of breath occurs, consult the physician
